Le Morte d’Arthur · Chapters

Chapters explained

Chapter companions for Le Morte d’Arthur by Thomas Malory.

Chapter 1
Bibliographical Note
This chapter provides a detailed account of the publication history of Malory's Le Morte d'Arthur, from its completion in 1469-1470 through Caxton's first printed edition in 1485 and subsequent reprints by Wynkyn de Worde, William Copland, Thomas East, and Thomas Stansby. It discusses the editorial changes made by Caxton, the loss of the original manuscript, and the scholarly efforts of editors like Robert Southey, Sir Edward Strachey, Dr. H. Oskar Sommer, and Israel Gollancz to restore and modernize the text. The note also explores the identity of Sir Thomas Malory, suggesting he may have been a Lancastrian knight who wrote the work while imprisoned, and traces the sources Malory used, including French romances and English metrical works.
Chapter 2
Preface of William Caxton
William Caxton explains his decision to print Sir Thomas Malory's 'Le Morte Darthur,' defending the historical existence of King Arthur against skeptics by citing evidence such as Arthur's tomb at Glastonbury, the Round Table at Winchester, and other relics. He categorizes Arthur among the Nine Worthies and emphasizes the moral and chivalric lessons the book offers to its readers.
Chapter 3
Le Morte d'Arthur
This chapter recounts the final tragic events of King Arthur's reign, including Mordred's usurpation of the throne, Arthur's return to England, the Battle of Salisbury, and Arthur's death, marking the end of the Arthurian era.
Chapter 4
Book I
The chapter begins with the death of King Uther Pendragon and the mysterious birth of Arthur. Merlin arranges for Arthur to be raised by Sir Ector. After Uther's death, the kingdom falls into chaos until the miraculous sword in the stone appears. Arthur, unaware of his heritage, draws the sword and is eventually crowned king. He proves his worth through battles against rebel kings and receives Excalibur from the Lady of the Lake. The chapter establishes Arthur's early reign, his marriage to Guenever, and the founding of the Round Table.
Chapter 5
How Sir Mordred presumed and took on him to be King of England, and would have married the queen, his father’s wife.
Sir Mordred, having spread false news of King Arthur's death, seizes the throne and attempts to marry Queen Guenever. She feigns agreement but escapes to the Tower of London, which she fortifies against Mordred's siege. The Bishop of Canterbury curses Mordred and flees. Mordred gathers a large army, and many Englishmen side with him, disloyal to Arthur. Word arrives that Arthur is returning from France, and Mordred prepares to meet him at Dover.
Chapter 6
How after that King Arthur had tidings, he returned and came to Dover, where Sir Mordred met him to let his landing; and of the death of Sir Gawaine.
King Arthur returns to England with a great navy to confront Sir Mordred, who has usurped the throne and attempted to marry Queen Guenever. After a fierce battle at Dover, Arthur's forces land and put Mordred to flight. The mortally wounded Sir Gawaine is found, and he writes a letter to Sir Launcelot, taking responsibility for his own death and urging Launcelot to return and rescue King Arthur from the traitor Mordred. Gawaine dies at noon, and Arthur buries him in a chapel at Dover Castle.
Chapter 7
III
King Arthur dreams of Sir Gawaine, who warns him not to fight Sir Mordred the next day, as he would be slain; Arthur sends Sir Lucan and Sir Bedivere to negotiate a month-long truce with Mordred, who agrees to take Cornwall and Kent during Arthur's reign and all England after.
Chapter 8
How by misadventure of an adder the battle began, where Mordred was slain, and Arthur hurt to the death.
King Arthur and Sir Mordred meet for a parley, but an adder stings a knight, causing him to draw his sword and triggering a full-scale battle. Both armies fight fiercely, resulting in massive casualties. Arthur and Mordred mortally wound each other; Mordred dies, and Arthur is gravely injured. Only Sir Lucan and Sir Bedivere survive among Arthur's knights. After the battle, robbers plunder the dead, and the survivors attempt to move Arthur to safety.
Chapter 9
How King Arthur commanded to cast his sword Excalibur into the water, and how he was delivered to ladies in a barge
King Arthur, mortally wounded, commands Sir Bedivere to throw Excalibur into the lake. After twice hiding the sword, Bedivere finally obeys, and a hand rises from the water to catch it. Arthur is then carried to a barge of mourning queens and departs for the vale of Avilion, leaving Bedivere alone.
Chapter 10
How Sir Bedivere Found Him on the Morrow Dead in an Hermitage
Sir Bedivere discovers King Arthur's tomb in a chapel and learns from the hermit (formerly the Bishop of Canterbury) that ladies brought the body at midnight. Bedivere resolves to stay and live a life of fasting and prayer, and the hermit welcomes him, revealing he knows Bedivere as the brother of Sir Lucan the Butler. Bedivere recounts the tale, and the chapter concludes with the account of Arthur being led away in a ship by three queens and Nimue, the Lady of the Lake.
Chapter 11
Of the opinion of some men of the death of King Arthur; and how Queen Guenever made her a nun in Almesbury
The chapter recounts the differing beliefs about King Arthur's death, with some saying he was taken to another place and will return to win the holy cross, while others maintain he changed his life in this world. It describes the inscription on his tomb: 'Hic jacet Arthurus, Rex quondam, Rexque futurus.' Sir Bedivere remains with a hermit at Glastonbury, living in prayer and abstinence. Upon learning of Arthur's death and the loss of the knights, Queen Guenever secretly goes to Almesbury with five ladies, becomes a nun, and devotes herself to penance, fasting, and alms-deeds, eventually becoming abbess.
Chapter 12
How Sir Lancelot Heard of the Death of King Arthur and of Sir Gawaine
Sir Launcelot, upon hearing of King Arthur's death and Sir Mordred's usurpation, returns to England with a great host. He mourns Sir Gawaine at his tomb in Dover, distributes alms, and then sets out to seek Queen Guenever, who has fled westward.
Chapter 13
How Sir Launcelot Departed to Seek the Queen Guenever
Sir Launcelot, against the advice of Sir Bors, sets out alone to find Queen Guenever. After searching for seven or eight days, he discovers her at a nunnery in Almesbury. The queen, overwhelmed with grief and guilt, blames their love for the war and the death of King Arthur and many noble knights. She commands Launcelot to forsake her company, return to his realm, and take a wife, while she devotes herself to a religious life. Launcelot refuses to marry, pledging instead to join her in religious devotion and prayer.
Chapter 14
How Sir Launcelot came to the hermitage where the Archbishop of Canterbury was, and how he took the habit on him
After the final parting with Queen Guenever, Sir Launcelot rides in sorrow to a hermitage where the Bishop of Canterbury (formerly the Archbishop) is. He takes the religious habit, confesses, and becomes a brother. Over time, Sir Bors and six other knights join him in penance. After six years, Launcelot becomes a priest. A vision thrice commands him to go to Almesbury, where he will find Queen Guenever dead, and to bury her beside King Arthur.
Chapter 15
XI
Sir Launcelot and his eight fellows travel from Glastonbury to Almesbury, where they find Queen Guenever has just died. Launcelot performs the funeral service himself, and they bring her body back to Glastonbury for burial beside King Arthur. Launcelot is overcome with grief and remorse, blaming his own pride and default for the deaths of Arthur and Guenever.
Chapter 16
How Sir Launcelot Began to Sicken, and After Died, Whose Body Was Borne to Joyous Gard for to Be Buried
Sir Launcelot, grief-stricken by the deaths of King Arthur and Queen Guenever, refuses food and drink, wasting away until he dies. He receives last rites, requests his body be taken to Joyous Gard, and dies peacefully. The Bishop has a vision of angels carrying Launcelot to heaven. His body is brought to Joyous Gard, where Sir Ector de Maris arrives after seven years of searching.
Chapter 17
How Sir Ector found Sir Launcelot his brother dead, and how Constantine reigned next after Arthur; and of the end of this book.
Sir Ector discovers the body of his brother Sir Launcelot at Joyous Gard and delivers a poignant eulogy. Launcelot is buried with great devotion. Sir Constantine is chosen king of England and restores the Bishop of Canterbury. Several knights, including Sir Bors, Sir Ector, Sir Blamore, and Sir Bleoberis, depart for the Holy Land, where they die fighting the miscreants. The book concludes with Malory's prayer and a note on the completion of Le Morte Darthur.
Chapter 18
XIV
The Pope sends bulls to King Arthur to make peace, and Sir Launcelot agrees to return Queen Guenever to the king. Despite Sir Gawaine's opposition, Launcelot brings the queen to Carlisle with great ceremony, leading her before Arthur and Gawaine, where many weep.
Chapter 19
Of the deliverance of the queen to the king by Sir Launcelot, and what language Sir Gawaine had to Sir Launcelot.
Sir Launcelot returns Queen Guenever to King Arthur, asserting her innocence and challenging any knight who claims otherwise. He recounts his past services to Arthur and Gawaine, including rescuing Gawaine from Sir Carados and Gaheris from Sir Turquin, and laments the lies that caused the rift between them.
Chapter 20
XVI
Sir Gawaine confronts Sir Launcelot, refusing reconciliation for the deaths of his brothers Sir Gareth and Sir Gaheris. Launcelot offers to build religious houses in their memory, but Gawaine insists on eternal enmity, though the Pope's command forces a temporary truce.
Chapter 21
XVII
Sir Launcelot, banished from the court, departs from King Arthur and Queen Guenever, taking his leave amid great sorrow from the knights and ladies. He vows to defend the queen's honor and prepares to leave the realm, with many knights pledging to follow him into exile.
Chapter 22
How Sir Launcelot Passed Over the Sea
Sir Launcelot, anticipating trouble from Sir Mordred, departs with a hundred knights from Cardiff to Benwick. He establishes his rule over France, crowns his kinsmen as kings and dukes, and rewards his loyal knights with lands and titles.
Chapter 23
How King Arthur and Sir Gawaine made a great host ready to go over sea to make war on Sir Launcelot
King Arthur and Sir Gawaine assemble a massive army of sixty thousand men and sail from Cardiff to invade Sir Launcelot's lands. Arthur appoints Sir Mordred as chief ruler of England and places Queen Guenever under his governance. Upon landing, they burn and waste Launcelot's territories. Sir Launcelot's knights urge him to fight back, but he hesitates to shed Christian blood and instead sends a damosel to King Arthur with a peace offer. King Arthur is moved to tears and inclined to accept, but Sir Gawaine insists they continue the war, and Arthur defers to his nephew's counsel.
Chapter 24
The Siege of Benwick: Sir Gawaine's Challenge
Sir Gawaine sends a damosel to Sir Launcelot with a message that peace is too late and he will never cease until one of them is slain. King Arthur lays siege to Benwick, and Sir Gawaine daily challenges the knights, smiting down Sir Bors and Sir Lionel. After enduring half a year, Sir Launcelot, moved by Gawaine's accusations of treason and the urging of his kin, finally arms himself to defend his honor against the king who knighted him.
Chapter 25
How Sir Launcelot and Sir Gawaine did battle together, and how Sir Gawaine was overthrown and hurt
Sir Launcelot and Sir Gawaine engage in a fierce duel. Gawaine's strength magically increases until noon, but Launcelot endures his attacks. After noon, Gawaine's power wanes, and Launcelot overthrows him, refusing to kill a fallen knight. Launcelot then departs into the city, leaving Gawaine to be healed.
Chapter 26
XXII
King Arthur laments the war with Sir Launcelot, especially after Sir Gawaine is wounded. Sir Gawaine recovers and challenges Launcelot again, but Launcelot defeats him once more, though he refuses to strike a fallen man. News from England then forces Arthur to lift the siege.
Chapter 27
How Sir Launcelot behaved him at the jousts, and other men also
At a great tournament, King Arthur and his knights engage in fierce jousting. Sir Launcelot, accompanied by Sir Lavaine, enters the field and performs extraordinary feats, smiting down many knights of the Round Table. Sir Gareth, disguised with a green shield, joins Launcelot to aid him against King Arthur and nine knights, including Sir Gawaine and Sir Palomides. The three allies fight together, with Sir Gareth unhorsing over thirty knights, while the knights of Launcelot's blood hold the opposing kings at bay.
Chapter 28
How King Arthur marvelled much of the jousting in the field, and how he rode and found Sir Launcelot
King Arthur and his knights marvel at the prowess of a mysterious knight with a red sleeve of gold, whom Sir Gawaine identifies as Sir Launcelot, accompanied by Sir Lavaine and Sir Gareth. After the tournament, Arthur discovers Launcelot's identity and learns of his wound from a huntress. Arthur praises Gareth for aiding Launcelot, and the chapter concludes with feasts and celebrations.
Chapter 29
How True Love is Likened to Summer
The narrator reflects on the nature of true love, comparing it to the flourishing of May and contrasting the steadfast love of old with the fickle passions of the present day. Queen Guenever is cited as an example of a true lover who had a good end.
Chapter 30
How King Arthur, the Queen, and Launcelot received letters out of Cornwall, and of the answer again.
A knight named Fergus brings good tidings and letters from Sir Tristram to King Arthur, Queen Guenever, and Sir Launcelot. They send letters back, with Launcelot warning Tristram to beware of King Mark, whom he calls 'King Fox.' The damosel also brings letters to La Beale Isoud, who expresses her mutual suffering with Tristram. King Mark, suspecting treason, sends secret letters to Arthur, Guenever, and Launcelot, telling Arthur to mind his own affairs.
Chapter 31
How Sir Launcelot was wroth with the letter that he received from King Mark, and of Dinadan which made a lay of King Mark.
King Arthur and Queen Guenever receive letters from King Mark accusing Sir Tristram and slandering Guenever and Sir Launcelot. Arthur initially muses on Morgan le Fay's past words but dismisses them, knowing his sister's enmity. Guenever sends her letter to Launcelot, who becomes furious and takes to his bed. Sir Dinadan, a trusted knight, steals the letter, reads it, and counsels Launcelot to ignore the threats. Dinadan then composes a mocking lay about King Mark and has it taught to harpers to sing throughout Wales and Cornwall.
Chapter 32
Book II
Book II continues the adventures of Sir Balin, including the Dolorous Stroke and the tragic circumstances surrounding his death and that of his brother Balan, as well as the adventures of other knights such as Sir Launcelot and Sir Gawaine.
Chapter 33
How Sir Mordred presumed and took on him to be King of England, and would have married the queen, his father’s wife.
Sir Mordred, having spread false news of King Arthur's death, seizes the throne and attempts to marry Queen Guenever. She feigns agreement but escapes to the Tower of London, which she fortifies against Mordred's siege. The Bishop of Canterbury curses Mordred and flees. Mordred gathers a large army, and many Englishmen side with him, disloyal to Arthur. Word arrives that Arthur is returning from France, and Mordred prepares to meet him at Dover.
Chapter 34
How after that King Arthur had tidings, he returned and came to Dover, where Sir Mordred met him to let his landing; and of the death of Sir Gawaine.
King Arthur returns to England with a great navy to confront Sir Mordred, who has usurped the throne and attempted to marry Queen Guenever. After a fierce battle at Dover, Arthur's forces land and put Mordred to flight. The mortally wounded Sir Gawaine is found, and he writes a letter to Sir Launcelot, taking responsibility for his own death and urging Launcelot to return and rescue King Arthur from the traitor Mordred. Gawaine dies at noon, and Arthur buries him in a chapel at Dover Castle.
Chapter 35
III
King Arthur dreams of Sir Gawaine, who warns him not to fight Sir Mordred the next day, as he would be slain; Arthur sends Sir Lucan and Sir Bedivere to negotiate a month-long truce with Mordred, who agrees to take Cornwall and Kent during Arthur's reign and all England after.
Chapter 36
How by misadventure of an adder the battle began, where Mordred was slain, and Arthur hurt to the death.
King Arthur and Sir Mordred meet for a parley, but an adder stings a knight, causing him to draw his sword and triggering a full-scale battle. Both armies fight fiercely, resulting in massive casualties. Arthur and Mordred mortally wound each other; Mordred dies, and Arthur is gravely injured. Only Sir Lucan and Sir Bedivere survive among Arthur's knights. After the battle, robbers plunder the dead, and the survivors attempt to move Arthur to safety.
Chapter 37
How King Arthur commanded to cast his sword Excalibur into the water, and how he was delivered to ladies in a barge
King Arthur, mortally wounded, commands Sir Bedivere to throw Excalibur into the lake. After twice hiding the sword, Bedivere finally obeys, and a hand rises from the water to catch it. Arthur is then carried to a barge of mourning queens and departs for the vale of Avilion, leaving Bedivere alone.
Chapter 38
How Sir Bedivere Found Him on the Morrow Dead in an Hermitage
Sir Bedivere discovers King Arthur's tomb in a chapel and learns from the hermit (formerly the Bishop of Canterbury) that ladies brought the body at midnight. Bedivere resolves to stay and live a life of fasting and prayer, and the hermit welcomes him, revealing he knows Bedivere as the brother of Sir Lucan the Butler. Bedivere recounts the tale, and the chapter concludes with the account of Arthur being led away in a ship by three queens and Nimue, the Lady of the Lake.
Chapter 39
Of the opinion of some men of the death of King Arthur; and how Queen Guenever made her a nun in Almesbury
The chapter recounts the differing beliefs about King Arthur's death, with some saying he was taken to another place and will return to win the holy cross, while others maintain he changed his life in this world. It describes the inscription on his tomb: 'Hic jacet Arthurus, Rex quondam, Rexque futurus.' Sir Bedivere remains with a hermit at Glastonbury, living in prayer and abstinence. Upon learning of Arthur's death and the loss of the knights, Queen Guenever secretly goes to Almesbury with five ladies, becomes a nun, and devotes herself to penance, fasting, and alms-deeds, eventually becoming abbess.
Chapter 40
How Sir Lancelot Heard of the Death of King Arthur and of Sir Gawaine
Sir Launcelot, upon hearing of King Arthur's death and Sir Mordred's usurpation, returns to England with a great host. He mourns Sir Gawaine at his tomb in Dover, distributes alms, and then sets out to seek Queen Guenever, who has fled westward.
Chapter 41
How Sir Launcelot Departed to Seek the Queen Guenever
Sir Launcelot, against the advice of Sir Bors, sets out alone to find Queen Guenever. After searching for seven or eight days, he discovers her at a nunnery in Almesbury. The queen, overwhelmed with grief and guilt, blames their love for the war and the death of King Arthur and many noble knights. She commands Launcelot to forsake her company, return to his realm, and take a wife, while she devotes herself to a religious life. Launcelot refuses to marry, pledging instead to join her in religious devotion and prayer.
Chapter 42
How Sir Launcelot came to the hermitage where the Archbishop of Canterbury was, and how he took the habit on him
After the final parting with Queen Guenever, Sir Launcelot rides in sorrow to a hermitage where the Bishop of Canterbury (formerly the Archbishop) is. He takes the religious habit, confesses, and becomes a brother. Over time, Sir Bors and six other knights join him in penance. After six years, Launcelot becomes a priest. A vision thrice commands him to go to Almesbury, where he will find Queen Guenever dead, and to bury her beside King Arthur.
Chapter 43
XI
Sir Launcelot and his eight fellows travel from Glastonbury to Almesbury, where they find Queen Guenever has just died. Launcelot performs the funeral service himself, and they bring her body back to Glastonbury for burial beside King Arthur. Launcelot is overcome with grief and remorse, blaming his own pride and default for the deaths of Arthur and Guenever.
Chapter 44
How Sir Launcelot Began to Sicken, and After Died, Whose Body Was Borne to Joyous Gard for to Be Buried
Sir Launcelot, grief-stricken by the deaths of King Arthur and Queen Guenever, refuses food and drink, wasting away until he dies. He receives last rites, requests his body be taken to Joyous Gard, and dies peacefully. The Bishop has a vision of angels carrying Launcelot to heaven. His body is brought to Joyous Gard, where Sir Ector de Maris arrives after seven years of searching.
Chapter 45
How Sir Ector found Sir Launcelot his brother dead, and how Constantine reigned next after Arthur; and of the end of this book.
Sir Ector discovers the body of his brother Sir Launcelot at Joyous Gard and delivers a poignant eulogy. Launcelot is buried with great devotion. Sir Constantine is chosen king of England and restores the Bishop of Canterbury. Several knights, including Sir Bors, Sir Ector, Sir Blamore, and Sir Bleoberis, depart for the Holy Land, where they die fighting the miscreants. The book concludes with Malory's prayer and a note on the completion of Le Morte Darthur.
Chapter 46
XIV
The Pope sends bulls to King Arthur to make peace, and Sir Launcelot agrees to return Queen Guenever to the king. Despite Sir Gawaine's opposition, Launcelot brings the queen to Carlisle with great ceremony, leading her before Arthur and Gawaine, where many weep.
Chapter 47
Of the deliverance of the queen to the king by Sir Launcelot, and what language Sir Gawaine had to Sir Launcelot.
Sir Launcelot returns Queen Guenever to King Arthur, asserting her innocence and challenging any knight who claims otherwise. He recounts his past services to Arthur and Gawaine, including rescuing Gawaine from Sir Carados and Gaheris from Sir Turquin, and laments the lies that caused the rift between them.
Chapter 48
XVI
Sir Gawaine confronts Sir Launcelot, refusing reconciliation for the deaths of his brothers Sir Gareth and Sir Gaheris. Launcelot offers to build religious houses in their memory, but Gawaine insists on eternal enmity, though the Pope's command forces a temporary truce.
Chapter 49
XVII
Sir Launcelot, banished from the court, departs from King Arthur and Queen Guenever, taking his leave amid great sorrow from the knights and ladies. He vows to defend the queen's honor and prepares to leave the realm, with many knights pledging to follow him into exile.
Chapter 50
How Sir Launcelot Passed Over the Sea
Sir Launcelot, anticipating trouble from Sir Mordred, departs with a hundred knights from Cardiff to Benwick. He establishes his rule over France, crowns his kinsmen as kings and dukes, and rewards his loyal knights with lands and titles.
Chapter 51
How King Arthur and Sir Gawaine made a great host ready to go over sea to make war on Sir Launcelot
King Arthur and Sir Gawaine assemble a massive army of sixty thousand men and sail from Cardiff to invade Sir Launcelot's lands. Arthur appoints Sir Mordred as chief ruler of England and places Queen Guenever under his governance. Upon landing, they burn and waste Launcelot's territories. Sir Launcelot's knights urge him to fight back, but he hesitates to shed Christian blood and instead sends a damosel to King Arthur with a peace offer. King Arthur is moved to tears and inclined to accept, but Sir Gawaine insists they continue the war, and Arthur defers to his nephew's counsel.
Chapter 52
Book III
King Arthur establishes his court and marries Guenever, receiving the Round Table as a wedding gift. The knights of the Round Table are introduced, and their early adventures and quests begin, including Sir Gawaine's accidental slaying of a lady and Sir Tor's knighthood.
Chapter 53
How Sir Mordred presumed and took on him to be King of England, and would have married the queen, his father’s wife.
Sir Mordred, having spread false news of King Arthur's death, seizes the throne and attempts to marry Queen Guenever. She feigns agreement but escapes to the Tower of London, which she fortifies against Mordred's siege. The Bishop of Canterbury curses Mordred and flees. Mordred gathers a large army, and many Englishmen side with him, disloyal to Arthur. Word arrives that Arthur is returning from France, and Mordred prepares to meet him at Dover.
Chapter 54
How after that King Arthur had tidings, he returned and came to Dover, where Sir Mordred met him to let his landing; and of the death of Sir Gawaine.
King Arthur returns to England with a great navy to confront Sir Mordred, who has usurped the throne and attempted to marry Queen Guenever. After a fierce battle at Dover, Arthur's forces land and put Mordred to flight. The mortally wounded Sir Gawaine is found, and he writes a letter to Sir Launcelot, taking responsibility for his own death and urging Launcelot to return and rescue King Arthur from the traitor Mordred. Gawaine dies at noon, and Arthur buries him in a chapel at Dover Castle.
Chapter 55
III
King Arthur dreams of Sir Gawaine, who warns him not to fight Sir Mordred the next day, as he would be slain; Arthur sends Sir Lucan and Sir Bedivere to negotiate a month-long truce with Mordred, who agrees to take Cornwall and Kent during Arthur's reign and all England after.
Chapter 56
How by misadventure of an adder the battle began, where Mordred was slain, and Arthur hurt to the death.
King Arthur and Sir Mordred meet for a parley, but an adder stings a knight, causing him to draw his sword and triggering a full-scale battle. Both armies fight fiercely, resulting in massive casualties. Arthur and Mordred mortally wound each other; Mordred dies, and Arthur is gravely injured. Only Sir Lucan and Sir Bedivere survive among Arthur's knights. After the battle, robbers plunder the dead, and the survivors attempt to move Arthur to safety.
Chapter 57
How King Arthur commanded to cast his sword Excalibur into the water, and how he was delivered to ladies in a barge
King Arthur, mortally wounded, commands Sir Bedivere to throw Excalibur into the lake. After twice hiding the sword, Bedivere finally obeys, and a hand rises from the water to catch it. Arthur is then carried to a barge of mourning queens and departs for the vale of Avilion, leaving Bedivere alone.
Chapter 58
How Sir Bedivere Found Him on the Morrow Dead in an Hermitage
Sir Bedivere discovers King Arthur's tomb in a chapel and learns from the hermit (formerly the Bishop of Canterbury) that ladies brought the body at midnight. Bedivere resolves to stay and live a life of fasting and prayer, and the hermit welcomes him, revealing he knows Bedivere as the brother of Sir Lucan the Butler. Bedivere recounts the tale, and the chapter concludes with the account of Arthur being led away in a ship by three queens and Nimue, the Lady of the Lake.
Chapter 59
Of the opinion of some men of the death of King Arthur; and how Queen Guenever made her a nun in Almesbury
The chapter recounts the differing beliefs about King Arthur's death, with some saying he was taken to another place and will return to win the holy cross, while others maintain he changed his life in this world. It describes the inscription on his tomb: 'Hic jacet Arthurus, Rex quondam, Rexque futurus.' Sir Bedivere remains with a hermit at Glastonbury, living in prayer and abstinence. Upon learning of Arthur's death and the loss of the knights, Queen Guenever secretly goes to Almesbury with five ladies, becomes a nun, and devotes herself to penance, fasting, and alms-deeds, eventually becoming abbess.
Chapter 60
How Sir Lancelot Heard of the Death of King Arthur and of Sir Gawaine
Sir Launcelot, upon hearing of King Arthur's death and Sir Mordred's usurpation, returns to England with a great host. He mourns Sir Gawaine at his tomb in Dover, distributes alms, and then sets out to seek Queen Guenever, who has fled westward.
Chapter 61
How Sir Launcelot Departed to Seek the Queen Guenever
Sir Launcelot, against the advice of Sir Bors, sets out alone to find Queen Guenever. After searching for seven or eight days, he discovers her at a nunnery in Almesbury. The queen, overwhelmed with grief and guilt, blames their love for the war and the death of King Arthur and many noble knights. She commands Launcelot to forsake her company, return to his realm, and take a wife, while she devotes herself to a religious life. Launcelot refuses to marry, pledging instead to join her in religious devotion and prayer.
Chapter 62
How Sir Launcelot came to the hermitage where the Archbishop of Canterbury was, and how he took the habit on him
After the final parting with Queen Guenever, Sir Launcelot rides in sorrow to a hermitage where the Bishop of Canterbury (formerly the Archbishop) is. He takes the religious habit, confesses, and becomes a brother. Over time, Sir Bors and six other knights join him in penance. After six years, Launcelot becomes a priest. A vision thrice commands him to go to Almesbury, where he will find Queen Guenever dead, and to bury her beside King Arthur.
Chapter 63
XI
Sir Launcelot and his eight fellows travel from Glastonbury to Almesbury, where they find Queen Guenever has just died. Launcelot performs the funeral service himself, and they bring her body back to Glastonbury for burial beside King Arthur. Launcelot is overcome with grief and remorse, blaming his own pride and default for the deaths of Arthur and Guenever.
Chapter 64
How Sir Launcelot Began to Sicken, and After Died, Whose Body Was Borne to Joyous Gard for to Be Buried
Sir Launcelot, grief-stricken by the deaths of King Arthur and Queen Guenever, refuses food and drink, wasting away until he dies. He receives last rites, requests his body be taken to Joyous Gard, and dies peacefully. The Bishop has a vision of angels carrying Launcelot to heaven. His body is brought to Joyous Gard, where Sir Ector de Maris arrives after seven years of searching.
Chapter 65
How Sir Ector found Sir Launcelot his brother dead, and how Constantine reigned next after Arthur; and of the end of this book.
Sir Ector discovers the body of his brother Sir Launcelot at Joyous Gard and delivers a poignant eulogy. Launcelot is buried with great devotion. Sir Constantine is chosen king of England and restores the Bishop of Canterbury. Several knights, including Sir Bors, Sir Ector, Sir Blamore, and Sir Bleoberis, depart for the Holy Land, where they die fighting the miscreants. The book concludes with Malory's prayer and a note on the completion of Le Morte Darthur.
Chapter 66
XIV
The Pope sends bulls to King Arthur to make peace, and Sir Launcelot agrees to return Queen Guenever to the king. Despite Sir Gawaine's opposition, Launcelot brings the queen to Carlisle with great ceremony, leading her before Arthur and Gawaine, where many weep.
Chapter 67
Of the deliverance of the queen to the king by Sir Launcelot, and what language Sir Gawaine had to Sir Launcelot.
Sir Launcelot returns Queen Guenever to King Arthur, asserting her innocence and challenging any knight who claims otherwise. He recounts his past services to Arthur and Gawaine, including rescuing Gawaine from Sir Carados and Gaheris from Sir Turquin, and laments the lies that caused the rift between them.
Chapter 68
Book IV
King Arthur receives a message from King Rience demanding his beard, which Arthur refuses, leading to a battle. Meanwhile, Merlin prophesies Arthur's death and advises him to ally with King Ban and King Bors. Arthur marries Guenever, and Merlin warns him of her future love for Launcelot. Arthur receives the Round Table from King Leodegrance. The chapter also includes the tale of Balin, who draws a sword from a scabbard, kills a lady, and later faces his brother Balan in a tragic duel.
Chapter 69
How Sir Mordred presumed and took on him to be King of England, and would have married the queen, his father’s wife.
Sir Mordred, having spread false news of King Arthur's death, seizes the throne and attempts to marry Queen Guenever. She feigns agreement but escapes to the Tower of London, which she fortifies against Mordred's siege. The Bishop of Canterbury curses Mordred and flees. Mordred gathers a large army, and many Englishmen side with him, disloyal to Arthur. Word arrives that Arthur is returning from France, and Mordred prepares to meet him at Dover.
Chapter 70
How after that King Arthur had tidings, he returned and came to Dover, where Sir Mordred met him to let his landing; and of the death of Sir Gawaine.
King Arthur returns to England with a great navy to confront Sir Mordred, who has usurped the throne and attempted to marry Queen Guenever. After a fierce battle at Dover, Arthur's forces land and put Mordred to flight. The mortally wounded Sir Gawaine is found, and he writes a letter to Sir Launcelot, taking responsibility for his own death and urging Launcelot to return and rescue King Arthur from the traitor Mordred. Gawaine dies at noon, and Arthur buries him in a chapel at Dover Castle.
Chapter 71
III
King Arthur dreams of Sir Gawaine, who warns him not to fight Sir Mordred the next day, as he would be slain; Arthur sends Sir Lucan and Sir Bedivere to negotiate a month-long truce with Mordred, who agrees to take Cornwall and Kent during Arthur's reign and all England after.
Chapter 72
How by misadventure of an adder the battle began, where Mordred was slain, and Arthur hurt to the death.
King Arthur and Sir Mordred meet for a parley, but an adder stings a knight, causing him to draw his sword and triggering a full-scale battle. Both armies fight fiercely, resulting in massive casualties. Arthur and Mordred mortally wound each other; Mordred dies, and Arthur is gravely injured. Only Sir Lucan and Sir Bedivere survive among Arthur's knights. After the battle, robbers plunder the dead, and the survivors attempt to move Arthur to safety.
Chapter 73
How King Arthur commanded to cast his sword Excalibur into the water, and how he was delivered to ladies in a barge
King Arthur, mortally wounded, commands Sir Bedivere to throw Excalibur into the lake. After twice hiding the sword, Bedivere finally obeys, and a hand rises from the water to catch it. Arthur is then carried to a barge of mourning queens and departs for the vale of Avilion, leaving Bedivere alone.
Chapter 74
How Sir Bedivere Found Him on the Morrow Dead in an Hermitage
Sir Bedivere discovers King Arthur's tomb in a chapel and learns from the hermit (formerly the Bishop of Canterbury) that ladies brought the body at midnight. Bedivere resolves to stay and live a life of fasting and prayer, and the hermit welcomes him, revealing he knows Bedivere as the brother of Sir Lucan the Butler. Bedivere recounts the tale, and the chapter concludes with the account of Arthur being led away in a ship by three queens and Nimue, the Lady of the Lake.
Chapter 75
Of the opinion of some men of the death of King Arthur; and how Queen Guenever made her a nun in Almesbury
The chapter recounts the differing beliefs about King Arthur's death, with some saying he was taken to another place and will return to win the holy cross, while others maintain he changed his life in this world. It describes the inscription on his tomb: 'Hic jacet Arthurus, Rex quondam, Rexque futurus.' Sir Bedivere remains with a hermit at Glastonbury, living in prayer and abstinence. Upon learning of Arthur's death and the loss of the knights, Queen Guenever secretly goes to Almesbury with five ladies, becomes a nun, and devotes herself to penance, fasting, and alms-deeds, eventually becoming abbess.
Chapter 76
How Sir Lancelot Heard of the Death of King Arthur and of Sir Gawaine
Sir Launcelot, upon hearing of King Arthur's death and Sir Mordred's usurpation, returns to England with a great host. He mourns Sir Gawaine at his tomb in Dover, distributes alms, and then sets out to seek Queen Guenever, who has fled westward.
Chapter 77
How Sir Launcelot Departed to Seek the Queen Guenever
Sir Launcelot, against the advice of Sir Bors, sets out alone to find Queen Guenever. After searching for seven or eight days, he discovers her at a nunnery in Almesbury. The queen, overwhelmed with grief and guilt, blames their love for the war and the death of King Arthur and many noble knights. She commands Launcelot to forsake her company, return to his realm, and take a wife, while she devotes herself to a religious life. Launcelot refuses to marry, pledging instead to join her in religious devotion and prayer.
Chapter 78
How Sir Launcelot came to the hermitage where the Archbishop of Canterbury was, and how he took the habit on him
After the final parting with Queen Guenever, Sir Launcelot rides in sorrow to a hermitage where the Bishop of Canterbury (formerly the Archbishop) is. He takes the religious habit, confesses, and becomes a brother. Over time, Sir Bors and six other knights join him in penance. After six years, Launcelot becomes a priest. A vision thrice commands him to go to Almesbury, where he will find Queen Guenever dead, and to bury her beside King Arthur.
Chapter 79
XI
Sir Launcelot and his eight fellows travel from Glastonbury to Almesbury, where they find Queen Guenever has just died. Launcelot performs the funeral service himself, and they bring her body back to Glastonbury for burial beside King Arthur. Launcelot is overcome with grief and remorse, blaming his own pride and default for the deaths of Arthur and Guenever.
Chapter 80
How Sir Launcelot Began to Sicken, and After Died, Whose Body Was Borne to Joyous Gard for to Be Buried
Sir Launcelot, grief-stricken by the deaths of King Arthur and Queen Guenever, refuses food and drink, wasting away until he dies. He receives last rites, requests his body be taken to Joyous Gard, and dies peacefully. The Bishop has a vision of angels carrying Launcelot to heaven. His body is brought to Joyous Gard, where Sir Ector de Maris arrives after seven years of searching.
Chapter 81
How Sir Ector found Sir Launcelot his brother dead, and how Constantine reigned next after Arthur; and of the end of this book.
Sir Ector discovers the body of his brother Sir Launcelot at Joyous Gard and delivers a poignant eulogy. Launcelot is buried with great devotion. Sir Constantine is chosen king of England and restores the Bishop of Canterbury. Several knights, including Sir Bors, Sir Ector, Sir Blamore, and Sir Bleoberis, depart for the Holy Land, where they die fighting the miscreants. The book concludes with Malory's prayer and a note on the completion of Le Morte Darthur.
Chapter 82
XIV
The Pope sends bulls to King Arthur to make peace, and Sir Launcelot agrees to return Queen Guenever to the king. Despite Sir Gawaine's opposition, Launcelot brings the queen to Carlisle with great ceremony, leading her before Arthur and Gawaine, where many weep.
Chapter 83
Of the deliverance of the queen to the king by Sir Launcelot, and what language Sir Gawaine had to Sir Launcelot.
Sir Launcelot returns Queen Guenever to King Arthur, asserting her innocence and challenging any knight who claims otherwise. He recounts his past services to Arthur and Gawaine, including rescuing Gawaine from Sir Carados and Gaheris from Sir Turquin, and laments the lies that caused the rift between them.
Chapter 84
XVI
Sir Gawaine confronts Sir Launcelot, refusing reconciliation for the deaths of his brothers Sir Gareth and Sir Gaheris. Launcelot offers to build religious houses in their memory, but Gawaine insists on eternal enmity, though the Pope's command forces a temporary truce.
Chapter 85
XVII
Sir Launcelot, banished from the court, departs from King Arthur and Queen Guenever, taking his leave amid great sorrow from the knights and ladies. He vows to defend the queen's honor and prepares to leave the realm, with many knights pledging to follow him into exile.
Chapter 86
How Sir Launcelot Passed Over the Sea
Sir Launcelot, anticipating trouble from Sir Mordred, departs with a hundred knights from Cardiff to Benwick. He establishes his rule over France, crowns his kinsmen as kings and dukes, and rewards his loyal knights with lands and titles.
Chapter 87
How King Arthur and Sir Gawaine made a great host ready to go over sea to make war on Sir Launcelot
King Arthur and Sir Gawaine assemble a massive army of sixty thousand men and sail from Cardiff to invade Sir Launcelot's lands. Arthur appoints Sir Mordred as chief ruler of England and places Queen Guenever under his governance. Upon landing, they burn and waste Launcelot's territories. Sir Launcelot's knights urge him to fight back, but he hesitates to shed Christian blood and instead sends a damosel to King Arthur with a peace offer. King Arthur is moved to tears and inclined to accept, but Sir Gawaine insists they continue the war, and Arthur defers to his nephew's counsel.
Chapter 88
The Siege of Benwick: Sir Gawaine's Challenge
Sir Gawaine sends a damosel to Sir Launcelot with a message that peace is too late and he will never cease until one of them is slain. King Arthur lays siege to Benwick, and Sir Gawaine daily challenges the knights, smiting down Sir Bors and Sir Lionel. After enduring half a year, Sir Launcelot, moved by Gawaine's accusations of treason and the urging of his kin, finally arms himself to defend his honor against the king who knighted him.
Chapter 89
How Sir Launcelot and Sir Gawaine did battle together, and how Sir Gawaine was overthrown and hurt
Sir Launcelot and Sir Gawaine engage in a fierce duel. Gawaine's strength magically increases until noon, but Launcelot endures his attacks. After noon, Gawaine's power wanes, and Launcelot overthrows him, refusing to kill a fallen knight. Launcelot then departs into the city, leaving Gawaine to be healed.
Chapter 90
XXII
King Arthur laments the war with Sir Launcelot, especially after Sir Gawaine is wounded. Sir Gawaine recovers and challenges Launcelot again, but Launcelot defeats him once more, though he refuses to strike a fallen man. News from England then forces Arthur to lift the siege.
Chapter 91
How Sir Launcelot behaved him at the jousts, and other men also
At a great tournament, King Arthur and his knights engage in fierce jousting. Sir Launcelot, accompanied by Sir Lavaine, enters the field and performs extraordinary feats, smiting down many knights of the Round Table. Sir Gareth, disguised with a green shield, joins Launcelot to aid him against King Arthur and nine knights, including Sir Gawaine and Sir Palomides. The three allies fight together, with Sir Gareth unhorsing over thirty knights, while the knights of Launcelot's blood hold the opposing kings at bay.
Chapter 92
How King Arthur marvelled much of the jousting in the field, and how he rode and found Sir Launcelot
King Arthur and his knights marvel at the prowess of a mysterious knight with a red sleeve of gold, whom Sir Gawaine identifies as Sir Launcelot, accompanied by Sir Lavaine and Sir Gareth. After the tournament, Arthur discovers Launcelot's identity and learns of his wound from a huntress. Arthur praises Gareth for aiding Launcelot, and the chapter concludes with feasts and celebrations.
Chapter 93
How True Love is Likened to Summer
The narrator reflects on the nature of true love, comparing it to the flourishing of May and contrasting the steadfast love of old with the fickle passions of the present day. Queen Guenever is cited as an example of a true lover who had a good end.
Chapter 94
How King Arthur, the Queen, and Launcelot received letters out of Cornwall, and of the answer again.
A knight named Fergus brings good tidings and letters from Sir Tristram to King Arthur, Queen Guenever, and Sir Launcelot. They send letters back, with Launcelot warning Tristram to beware of King Mark, whom he calls 'King Fox.' The damosel also brings letters to La Beale Isoud, who expresses her mutual suffering with Tristram. King Mark, suspecting treason, sends secret letters to Arthur, Guenever, and Launcelot, telling Arthur to mind his own affairs.
Chapter 95
How Sir Launcelot was wroth with the letter that he received from King Mark, and of Dinadan which made a lay of King Mark.
King Arthur and Queen Guenever receive letters from King Mark accusing Sir Tristram and slandering Guenever and Sir Launcelot. Arthur initially muses on Morgan le Fay's past words but dismisses them, knowing his sister's enmity. Guenever sends her letter to Launcelot, who becomes furious and takes to his bed. Sir Dinadan, a trusted knight, steals the letter, reads it, and counsels Launcelot to ignore the threats. Dinadan then composes a mocking lay about King Mark and has it taught to harpers to sing throughout Wales and Cornwall.
Chapter 96
How Sir Tristram was hurt, and of a war made to King Mark; and of Sir Tristram how he promised to rescue him.
Sir Tristram, recovering from wounds sustained in jousts and tournaments, is summoned by King Mark to defend Cornwall against an invading host from Sessoin led by Elias. Despite his hatred for Tristram, Mark is compelled to seek his aid. Tristram, unable to fight immediately due to his injuries, promises to help once healed. King Mark engages the enemy but is forced to retreat to Tintagil Castle. Tristram, now healed, gathers ten knights of Arthur's and secretly enters the castle, slaying several enemy knights and bringing hope to the defenders.
Chapter 97
Book V
This chapter recounts the adventures of Sir Tristram, including his birth, early life, knighthood, and his conflicts with King Mark over La Beale Isoud. It details his battles, his love for Isoud, and the treachery of King Mark.
Chapter 98
How Sir Mordred presumed and took on him to be King of England, and would have married the queen, his father’s wife.
Sir Mordred, having spread false news of King Arthur's death, seizes the throne and attempts to marry Queen Guenever. She feigns agreement but escapes to the Tower of London, which she fortifies against Mordred's siege. The Bishop of Canterbury curses Mordred and flees. Mordred gathers a large army, and many Englishmen side with him, disloyal to Arthur. Word arrives that Arthur is returning from France, and Mordred prepares to meet him at Dover.
Chapter 99
How after that King Arthur had tidings, he returned and came to Dover, where Sir Mordred met him to let his landing; and of the death of Sir Gawaine.
King Arthur returns to England with a great navy to confront Sir Mordred, who has usurped the throne and attempted to marry Queen Guenever. After a fierce battle at Dover, Arthur's forces land and put Mordred to flight. The mortally wounded Sir Gawaine is found, and he writes a letter to Sir Launcelot, taking responsibility for his own death and urging Launcelot to return and rescue King Arthur from the traitor Mordred. Gawaine dies at noon, and Arthur buries him in a chapel at Dover Castle.
Chapter 100
III
King Arthur dreams of Sir Gawaine, who warns him not to fight Sir Mordred the next day, as he would be slain; Arthur sends Sir Lucan and Sir Bedivere to negotiate a month-long truce with Mordred, who agrees to take Cornwall and Kent during Arthur's reign and all England after.
Chapter 101
How by misadventure of an adder the battle began, where Mordred was slain, and Arthur hurt to the death.
King Arthur and Sir Mordred meet for a parley, but an adder stings a knight, causing him to draw his sword and triggering a full-scale battle. Both armies fight fiercely, resulting in massive casualties. Arthur and Mordred mortally wound each other; Mordred dies, and Arthur is gravely injured. Only Sir Lucan and Sir Bedivere survive among Arthur's knights. After the battle, robbers plunder the dead, and the survivors attempt to move Arthur to safety.
Chapter 102
How King Arthur commanded to cast his sword Excalibur into the water, and how he was delivered to ladies in a barge
King Arthur, mortally wounded, commands Sir Bedivere to throw Excalibur into the lake. After twice hiding the sword, Bedivere finally obeys, and a hand rises from the water to catch it. Arthur is then carried to a barge of mourning queens and departs for the vale of Avilion, leaving Bedivere alone.
Chapter 103
How Sir Bedivere Found Him on the Morrow Dead in an Hermitage
Sir Bedivere discovers King Arthur's tomb in a chapel and learns from the hermit (formerly the Bishop of Canterbury) that ladies brought the body at midnight. Bedivere resolves to stay and live a life of fasting and prayer, and the hermit welcomes him, revealing he knows Bedivere as the brother of Sir Lucan the Butler. Bedivere recounts the tale, and the chapter concludes with the account of Arthur being led away in a ship by three queens and Nimue, the Lady of the Lake.
Chapter 104
Of the opinion of some men of the death of King Arthur; and how Queen Guenever made her a nun in Almesbury
The chapter recounts the differing beliefs about King Arthur's death, with some saying he was taken to another place and will return to win the holy cross, while others maintain he changed his life in this world. It describes the inscription on his tomb: 'Hic jacet Arthurus, Rex quondam, Rexque futurus.' Sir Bedivere remains with a hermit at Glastonbury, living in prayer and abstinence. Upon learning of Arthur's death and the loss of the knights, Queen Guenever secretly goes to Almesbury with five ladies, becomes a nun, and devotes herself to penance, fasting, and alms-deeds, eventually becoming abbess.
Chapter 105
How Sir Lancelot Heard of the Death of King Arthur and of Sir Gawaine
Sir Launcelot, upon hearing of King Arthur's death and Sir Mordred's usurpation, returns to England with a great host. He mourns Sir Gawaine at his tomb in Dover, distributes alms, and then sets out to seek Queen Guenever, who has fled westward.
Chapter 106
How Sir Launcelot Departed to Seek the Queen Guenever
Sir Launcelot, against the advice of Sir Bors, sets out alone to find Queen Guenever. After searching for seven or eight days, he discovers her at a nunnery in Almesbury. The queen, overwhelmed with grief and guilt, blames their love for the war and the death of King Arthur and many noble knights. She commands Launcelot to forsake her company, return to his realm, and take a wife, while she devotes herself to a religious life. Launcelot refuses to marry, pledging instead to join her in religious devotion and prayer.
Chapter 107
How Sir Launcelot came to the hermitage where the Archbishop of Canterbury was, and how he took the habit on him
After the final parting with Queen Guenever, Sir Launcelot rides in sorrow to a hermitage where the Bishop of Canterbury (formerly the Archbishop) is. He takes the religious habit, confesses, and becomes a brother. Over time, Sir Bors and six other knights join him in penance. After six years, Launcelot becomes a priest. A vision thrice commands him to go to Almesbury, where he will find Queen Guenever dead, and to bury her beside King Arthur.
Chapter 108
XI
Sir Launcelot and his eight fellows travel from Glastonbury to Almesbury, where they find Queen Guenever has just died. Launcelot performs the funeral service himself, and they bring her body back to Glastonbury for burial beside King Arthur. Launcelot is overcome with grief and remorse, blaming his own pride and default for the deaths of Arthur and Guenever.
Chapter 109
How Sir Launcelot Began to Sicken, and After Died, Whose Body Was Borne to Joyous Gard for to Be Buried
Sir Launcelot, grief-stricken by the deaths of King Arthur and Queen Guenever, refuses food and drink, wasting away until he dies. He receives last rites, requests his body be taken to Joyous Gard, and dies peacefully. The Bishop has a vision of angels carrying Launcelot to heaven. His body is brought to Joyous Gard, where Sir Ector de Maris arrives after seven years of searching.
Chapter 110
Book VI
Sir Launcelot du Lake embarks on a series of adventures, demonstrating his unparalleled prowess and chivalry. He overcomes numerous knights in combat, rescues damsels in distress, and proves his loyalty to Queen Guenever. His deeds solidify his reputation as the greatest knight of the Round Table.
Chapter 111
How Sir Mordred presumed and took on him to be King of England, and would have married the queen, his father’s wife.
Sir Mordred, having spread false news of King Arthur's death, seizes the throne and attempts to marry Queen Guenever. She feigns agreement but escapes to the Tower of London, which she fortifies against Mordred's siege. The Bishop of Canterbury curses Mordred and flees. Mordred gathers a large army, and many Englishmen side with him, disloyal to Arthur. Word arrives that Arthur is returning from France, and Mordred prepares to meet him at Dover.
Chapter 112
How after that King Arthur had tidings, he returned and came to Dover, where Sir Mordred met him to let his landing; and of the death of Sir Gawaine.
King Arthur returns to England with a great navy to confront Sir Mordred, who has usurped the throne and attempted to marry Queen Guenever. After a fierce battle at Dover, Arthur's forces land and put Mordred to flight. The mortally wounded Sir Gawaine is found, and he writes a letter to Sir Launcelot, taking responsibility for his own death and urging Launcelot to return and rescue King Arthur from the traitor Mordred. Gawaine dies at noon, and Arthur buries him in a chapel at Dover Castle.
Chapter 113
III
King Arthur dreams of Sir Gawaine, who warns him not to fight Sir Mordred the next day, as he would be slain; Arthur sends Sir Lucan and Sir Bedivere to negotiate a month-long truce with Mordred, who agrees to take Cornwall and Kent during Arthur's reign and all England after.
Chapter 114
How by misadventure of an adder the battle began, where Mordred was slain, and Arthur hurt to the death.
King Arthur and Sir Mordred meet for a parley, but an adder stings a knight, causing him to draw his sword and triggering a full-scale battle. Both armies fight fiercely, resulting in massive casualties. Arthur and Mordred mortally wound each other; Mordred dies, and Arthur is gravely injured. Only Sir Lucan and Sir Bedivere survive among Arthur's knights. After the battle, robbers plunder the dead, and the survivors attempt to move Arthur to safety.
Chapter 115
How King Arthur commanded to cast his sword Excalibur into the water, and how he was delivered to ladies in a barge
King Arthur, mortally wounded, commands Sir Bedivere to throw Excalibur into the lake. After twice hiding the sword, Bedivere finally obeys, and a hand rises from the water to catch it. Arthur is then carried to a barge of mourning queens and departs for the vale of Avilion, leaving Bedivere alone.
Chapter 116
How Sir Bedivere Found Him on the Morrow Dead in an Hermitage
Sir Bedivere discovers King Arthur's tomb in a chapel and learns from the hermit (formerly the Bishop of Canterbury) that ladies brought the body at midnight. Bedivere resolves to stay and live a life of fasting and prayer, and the hermit welcomes him, revealing he knows Bedivere as the brother of Sir Lucan the Butler. Bedivere recounts the tale, and the chapter concludes with the account of Arthur being led away in a ship by three queens and Nimue, the Lady of the Lake.
Chapter 117
Of the opinion of some men of the death of King Arthur; and how Queen Guenever made her a nun in Almesbury
The chapter recounts the differing beliefs about King Arthur's death, with some saying he was taken to another place and will return to win the holy cross, while others maintain he changed his life in this world. It describes the inscription on his tomb: 'Hic jacet Arthurus, Rex quondam, Rexque futurus.' Sir Bedivere remains with a hermit at Glastonbury, living in prayer and abstinence. Upon learning of Arthur's death and the loss of the knights, Queen Guenever secretly goes to Almesbury with five ladies, becomes a nun, and devotes herself to penance, fasting, and alms-deeds, eventually becoming abbess.
Chapter 118
How Sir Lancelot Heard of the Death of King Arthur and of Sir Gawaine
Sir Launcelot, upon hearing of King Arthur's death and Sir Mordred's usurpation, returns to England with a great host. He mourns Sir Gawaine at his tomb in Dover, distributes alms, and then sets out to seek Queen Guenever, who has fled westward.
Chapter 119
How Sir Launcelot Departed to Seek the Queen Guenever
Sir Launcelot, against the advice of Sir Bors, sets out alone to find Queen Guenever. After searching for seven or eight days, he discovers her at a nunnery in Almesbury. The queen, overwhelmed with grief and guilt, blames their love for the war and the death of King Arthur and many noble knights. She commands Launcelot to forsake her company, return to his realm, and take a wife, while she devotes herself to a religious life. Launcelot refuses to marry, pledging instead to join her in religious devotion and prayer.
Chapter 120
How Sir Launcelot came to the hermitage where the Archbishop of Canterbury was, and how he took the habit on him
After the final parting with Queen Guenever, Sir Launcelot rides in sorrow to a hermitage where the Bishop of Canterbury (formerly the Archbishop) is. He takes the religious habit, confesses, and becomes a brother. Over time, Sir Bors and six other knights join him in penance. After six years, Launcelot becomes a priest. A vision thrice commands him to go to Almesbury, where he will find Queen Guenever dead, and to bury her beside King Arthur.
Chapter 121
XI
Sir Launcelot and his eight fellows travel from Glastonbury to Almesbury, where they find Queen Guenever has just died. Launcelot performs the funeral service himself, and they bring her body back to Glastonbury for burial beside King Arthur. Launcelot is overcome with grief and remorse, blaming his own pride and default for the deaths of Arthur and Guenever.
Chapter 122
How Sir Launcelot Began to Sicken, and After Died, Whose Body Was Borne to Joyous Gard for to Be Buried
Sir Launcelot, grief-stricken by the deaths of King Arthur and Queen Guenever, refuses food and drink, wasting away until he dies. He receives last rites, requests his body be taken to Joyous Gard, and dies peacefully. The Bishop has a vision of angels carrying Launcelot to heaven. His body is brought to Joyous Gard, where Sir Ector de Maris arrives after seven years of searching.
Chapter 123
How Sir Ector found Sir Launcelot his brother dead, and how Constantine reigned next after Arthur; and of the end of this book.
Sir Ector discovers the body of his brother Sir Launcelot at Joyous Gard and delivers a poignant eulogy. Launcelot is buried with great devotion. Sir Constantine is chosen king of England and restores the Bishop of Canterbury. Several knights, including Sir Bors, Sir Ector, Sir Blamore, and Sir Bleoberis, depart for the Holy Land, where they die fighting the miscreants. The book concludes with Malory's prayer and a note on the completion of Le Morte Darthur.
Chapter 124
XIV
The Pope sends bulls to King Arthur to make peace, and Sir Launcelot agrees to return Queen Guenever to the king. Despite Sir Gawaine's opposition, Launcelot brings the queen to Carlisle with great ceremony, leading her before Arthur and Gawaine, where many weep.
Chapter 125
Of the deliverance of the queen to the king by Sir Launcelot, and what language Sir Gawaine had to Sir Launcelot.
Sir Launcelot returns Queen Guenever to King Arthur, asserting her innocence and challenging any knight who claims otherwise. He recounts his past services to Arthur and Gawaine, including rescuing Gawaine from Sir Carados and Gaheris from Sir Turquin, and laments the lies that caused the rift between them.
Chapter 126
XVI
Sir Gawaine confronts Sir Launcelot, refusing reconciliation for the deaths of his brothers Sir Gareth and Sir Gaheris. Launcelot offers to build religious houses in their memory, but Gawaine insists on eternal enmity, though the Pope's command forces a temporary truce.
Chapter 127
XVII
Sir Launcelot, banished from the court, departs from King Arthur and Queen Guenever, taking his leave amid great sorrow from the knights and ladies. He vows to defend the queen's honor and prepares to leave the realm, with many knights pledging to follow him into exile.
Chapter 128
How Sir Launcelot Passed Over the Sea
Sir Launcelot, anticipating trouble from Sir Mordred, departs with a hundred knights from Cardiff to Benwick. He establishes his rule over France, crowns his kinsmen as kings and dukes, and rewards his loyal knights with lands and titles.
Chapter 129
Book VII
Sir Gareth of Orkney, initially known as Beaumains, arrives at King Arthur's court and requests three boons. He is granted the boons and later serves as a kitchen knave for a year. He then embarks on a quest to rescue a damsel, proving his worth through a series of knightly adventures and battles.
Chapter 130
How Sir Mordred presumed and took on him to be King of England, and would have married the queen, his father’s wife.
Sir Mordred, having spread false news of King Arthur's death, seizes the throne and attempts to marry Queen Guenever. She feigns agreement but escapes to the Tower of London, which she fortifies against Mordred's siege. The Bishop of Canterbury curses Mordred and flees. Mordred gathers a large army, and many Englishmen side with him, disloyal to Arthur. Word arrives that Arthur is returning from France, and Mordred prepares to meet him at Dover.
Chapter 131
How after that King Arthur had tidings, he returned and came to Dover, where Sir Mordred met him to let his landing; and of the death of Sir Gawaine.
King Arthur returns to England with a great navy to confront Sir Mordred, who has usurped the throne and attempted to marry Queen Guenever. After a fierce battle at Dover, Arthur's forces land and put Mordred to flight. The mortally wounded Sir Gawaine is found, and he writes a letter to Sir Launcelot, taking responsibility for his own death and urging Launcelot to return and rescue King Arthur from the traitor Mordred. Gawaine dies at noon, and Arthur buries him in a chapel at Dover Castle.
Chapter 132
III
King Arthur dreams of Sir Gawaine, who warns him not to fight Sir Mordred the next day, as he would be slain; Arthur sends Sir Lucan and Sir Bedivere to negotiate a month-long truce with Mordred, who agrees to take Cornwall and Kent during Arthur's reign and all England after.
Chapter 133
How by misadventure of an adder the battle began, where Mordred was slain, and Arthur hurt to the death.
King Arthur and Sir Mordred meet for a parley, but an adder stings a knight, causing him to draw his sword and triggering a full-scale battle. Both armies fight fiercely, resulting in massive casualties. Arthur and Mordred mortally wound each other; Mordred dies, and Arthur is gravely injured. Only Sir Lucan and Sir Bedivere survive among Arthur's knights. After the battle, robbers plunder the dead, and the survivors attempt to move Arthur to safety.
Chapter 134
How King Arthur commanded to cast his sword Excalibur into the water, and how he was delivered to ladies in a barge
King Arthur, mortally wounded, commands Sir Bedivere to throw Excalibur into the lake. After twice hiding the sword, Bedivere finally obeys, and a hand rises from the water to catch it. Arthur is then carried to a barge of mourning queens and departs for the vale of Avilion, leaving Bedivere alone.
Chapter 135
How Sir Bedivere Found Him on the Morrow Dead in an Hermitage
Sir Bedivere discovers King Arthur's tomb in a chapel and learns from the hermit (formerly the Bishop of Canterbury) that ladies brought the body at midnight. Bedivere resolves to stay and live a life of fasting and prayer, and the hermit welcomes him, revealing he knows Bedivere as the brother of Sir Lucan the Butler. Bedivere recounts the tale, and the chapter concludes with the account of Arthur being led away in a ship by three queens and Nimue, the Lady of the Lake.
Chapter 136
Of the opinion of some men of the death of King Arthur; and how Queen Guenever made her a nun in Almesbury
The chapter recounts the differing beliefs about King Arthur's death, with some saying he was taken to another place and will return to win the holy cross, while others maintain he changed his life in this world. It describes the inscription on his tomb: 'Hic jacet Arthurus, Rex quondam, Rexque futurus.' Sir Bedivere remains with a hermit at Glastonbury, living in prayer and abstinence. Upon learning of Arthur's death and the loss of the knights, Queen Guenever secretly goes to Almesbury with five ladies, becomes a nun, and devotes herself to penance, fasting, and alms-deeds, eventually becoming abbess.
Chapter 137
How Sir Lancelot Heard of the Death of King Arthur and of Sir Gawaine
Sir Launcelot, upon hearing of King Arthur's death and Sir Mordred's usurpation, returns to England with a great host. He mourns Sir Gawaine at his tomb in Dover, distributes alms, and then sets out to seek Queen Guenever, who has fled westward.
Chapter 138
How Sir Launcelot Departed to Seek the Queen Guenever
Sir Launcelot, against the advice of Sir Bors, sets out alone to find Queen Guenever. After searching for seven or eight days, he discovers her at a nunnery in Almesbury. The queen, overwhelmed with grief and guilt, blames their love for the war and the death of King Arthur and many noble knights. She commands Launcelot to forsake her company, return to his realm, and take a wife, while she devotes herself to a religious life. Launcelot refuses to marry, pledging instead to join her in religious devotion and prayer.
Chapter 139
How Sir Launcelot came to the hermitage where the Archbishop of Canterbury was, and how he took the habit on him
After the final parting with Queen Guenever, Sir Launcelot rides in sorrow to a hermitage where the Bishop of Canterbury (formerly the Archbishop) is. He takes the religious habit, confesses, and becomes a brother. Over time, Sir Bors and six other knights join him in penance. After six years, Launcelot becomes a priest. A vision thrice commands him to go to Almesbury, where he will find Queen Guenever dead, and to bury her beside King Arthur.
Chapter 140
XI
Sir Launcelot and his eight fellows travel from Glastonbury to Almesbury, where they find Queen Guenever has just died. Launcelot performs the funeral service himself, and they bring her body back to Glastonbury for burial beside King Arthur. Launcelot is overcome with grief and remorse, blaming his own pride and default for the deaths of Arthur and Guenever.
Chapter 141
How Sir Launcelot Began to Sicken, and After Died, Whose Body Was Borne to Joyous Gard for to Be Buried
Sir Launcelot, grief-stricken by the deaths of King Arthur and Queen Guenever, refuses food and drink, wasting away until he dies. He receives last rites, requests his body be taken to Joyous Gard, and dies peacefully. The Bishop has a vision of angels carrying Launcelot to heaven. His body is brought to Joyous Gard, where Sir Ector de Maris arrives after seven years of searching.
Chapter 142
How Sir Ector found Sir Launcelot his brother dead, and how Constantine reigned next after Arthur; and of the end of this book.
Sir Ector discovers the body of his brother Sir Launcelot at Joyous Gard and delivers a poignant eulogy. Launcelot is buried with great devotion. Sir Constantine is chosen king of England and restores the Bishop of Canterbury. Several knights, including Sir Bors, Sir Ector, Sir Blamore, and Sir Bleoberis, depart for the Holy Land, where they die fighting the miscreants. The book concludes with Malory's prayer and a note on the completion of Le Morte Darthur.
Chapter 143
XIV
The Pope sends bulls to King Arthur to make peace, and Sir Launcelot agrees to return Queen Guenever to the king. Despite Sir Gawaine's opposition, Launcelot brings the queen to Carlisle with great ceremony, leading her before Arthur and Gawaine, where many weep.
Chapter 144
Of the deliverance of the queen to the king by Sir Launcelot, and what language Sir Gawaine had to Sir Launcelot.
Sir Launcelot returns Queen Guenever to King Arthur, asserting her innocence and challenging any knight who claims otherwise. He recounts his past services to Arthur and Gawaine, including rescuing Gawaine from Sir Carados and Gaheris from Sir Turquin, and laments the lies that caused the rift between them.
Chapter 145
XVI
Sir Gawaine confronts Sir Launcelot, refusing reconciliation for the deaths of his brothers Sir Gareth and Sir Gaheris. Launcelot offers to build religious houses in their memory, but Gawaine insists on eternal enmity, though the Pope's command forces a temporary truce.
Chapter 146
XVII
Sir Launcelot, banished from the court, departs from King Arthur and Queen Guenever, taking his leave amid great sorrow from the knights and ladies. He vows to defend the queen's honor and prepares to leave the realm, with many knights pledging to follow him into exile.
Chapter 147
How Sir Launcelot Passed Over the Sea
Sir Launcelot, anticipating trouble from Sir Mordred, departs with a hundred knights from Cardiff to Benwick. He establishes his rule over France, crowns his kinsmen as kings and dukes, and rewards his loyal knights with lands and titles.
Chapter 148
How King Arthur and Sir Gawaine made a great host ready to go over sea to make war on Sir Launcelot
King Arthur and Sir Gawaine assemble a massive army of sixty thousand men and sail from Cardiff to invade Sir Launcelot's lands. Arthur appoints Sir Mordred as chief ruler of England and places Queen Guenever under his governance. Upon landing, they burn and waste Launcelot's territories. Sir Launcelot's knights urge him to fight back, but he hesitates to shed Christian blood and instead sends a damosel to King Arthur with a peace offer. King Arthur is moved to tears and inclined to accept, but Sir Gawaine insists they continue the war, and Arthur defers to his nephew's counsel.
Chapter 149
The Siege of Benwick: Sir Gawaine's Challenge
Sir Gawaine sends a damosel to Sir Launcelot with a message that peace is too late and he will never cease until one of them is slain. King Arthur lays siege to Benwick, and Sir Gawaine daily challenges the knights, smiting down Sir Bors and Sir Lionel. After enduring half a year, Sir Launcelot, moved by Gawaine's accusations of treason and the urging of his kin, finally arms himself to defend his honor against the king who knighted him.
Chapter 150
How Sir Launcelot and Sir Gawaine did battle together, and how Sir Gawaine was overthrown and hurt
Sir Launcelot and Sir Gawaine engage in a fierce duel. Gawaine's strength magically increases until noon, but Launcelot endures his attacks. After noon, Gawaine's power wanes, and Launcelot overthrows him, refusing to kill a fallen knight. Launcelot then departs into the city, leaving Gawaine to be healed.
Chapter 151
XXII
King Arthur laments the war with Sir Launcelot, especially after Sir Gawaine is wounded. Sir Gawaine recovers and challenges Launcelot again, but Launcelot defeats him once more, though he refuses to strike a fallen man. News from England then forces Arthur to lift the siege.
Chapter 152
How Sir Launcelot behaved him at the jousts, and other men also
At a great tournament, King Arthur and his knights engage in fierce jousting. Sir Launcelot, accompanied by Sir Lavaine, enters the field and performs extraordinary feats, smiting down many knights of the Round Table. Sir Gareth, disguised with a green shield, joins Launcelot to aid him against King Arthur and nine knights, including Sir Gawaine and Sir Palomides. The three allies fight together, with Sir Gareth unhorsing over thirty knights, while the knights of Launcelot's blood hold the opposing kings at bay.
Chapter 153
How King Arthur marvelled much of the jousting in the field, and how he rode and found Sir Launcelot
King Arthur and his knights marvel at the prowess of a mysterious knight with a red sleeve of gold, whom Sir Gawaine identifies as Sir Launcelot, accompanied by Sir Lavaine and Sir Gareth. After the tournament, Arthur discovers Launcelot's identity and learns of his wound from a huntress. Arthur praises Gareth for aiding Launcelot, and the chapter concludes with feasts and celebrations.
Chapter 154
How True Love is Likened to Summer
The narrator reflects on the nature of true love, comparing it to the flourishing of May and contrasting the steadfast love of old with the fickle passions of the present day. Queen Guenever is cited as an example of a true lover who had a good end.
Chapter 155
How King Arthur, the Queen, and Launcelot received letters out of Cornwall, and of the answer again.
A knight named Fergus brings good tidings and letters from Sir Tristram to King Arthur, Queen Guenever, and Sir Launcelot. They send letters back, with Launcelot warning Tristram to beware of King Mark, whom he calls 'King Fox.' The damosel also brings letters to La Beale Isoud, who expresses her mutual suffering with Tristram. King Mark, suspecting treason, sends secret letters to Arthur, Guenever, and Launcelot, telling Arthur to mind his own affairs.
Chapter 156
How Sir Launcelot was wroth with the letter that he received from King Mark, and of Dinadan which made a lay of King Mark.
King Arthur and Queen Guenever receive letters from King Mark accusing Sir Tristram and slandering Guenever and Sir Launcelot. Arthur initially muses on Morgan le Fay's past words but dismisses them, knowing his sister's enmity. Guenever sends her letter to Launcelot, who becomes furious and takes to his bed. Sir Dinadan, a trusted knight, steals the letter, reads it, and counsels Launcelot to ignore the threats. Dinadan then composes a mocking lay about King Mark and has it taught to harpers to sing throughout Wales and Cornwall.
Chapter 157
How Sir Tristram was hurt, and of a war made to King Mark; and of Sir Tristram how he promised to rescue him.
Sir Tristram, recovering from wounds sustained in jousts and tournaments, is summoned by King Mark to defend Cornwall against an invading host from Sessoin led by Elias. Despite his hatred for Tristram, Mark is compelled to seek his aid. Tristram, unable to fight immediately due to his injuries, promises to help once healed. King Mark engages the enemy but is forced to retreat to Tintagil Castle. Tristram, now healed, gathers ten knights of Arthur's and secretly enters the castle, slaying several enemy knights and bringing hope to the defenders.
Chapter 158
How Sir Tristram overcame the battle, and how Elias desired a man to fight body for body.
Elias the captain challenges King Mark to battle, and Sir Tristram takes command of the Cornish forces. Tristram burns the enemy ships, then leads a fierce battle where he performs great deeds of arms. After heavy losses on both sides, Elias proposes a single combat to decide the truage of Cornwall. King Mark and his barons agree to find a champion.
Chapter 159
How Sir Elias and Sir Tristram fought together for the truage, and how Sir Tristram slew Elias in the field
King Mark of Cornwall is dismayed when no knight dares to fight the champion Elias, who demands truage. Sir Tristram, though weary and wounded from the previous day's battle, volunteers to fight. After a fierce combat, Tristram is initially overwhelmed but rallies upon remembering his lady La Beale Isoud. He defeats and slays Elias, saving Cornwall from the truage. Despite this, King Mark harbors treacherous intentions toward Tristram, but Tristram remains oblivious, drawn by his love for Isoud.
Chapter 160
How at a great feast that King Mark made an harper came and sang the lay that Dinadan had made
At a feast celebrating the expulsion of the Sessoins from Cornwall, King Mark hosts a great celebration. Eliot the harper arrives, secretly bearing a lay composed by Sir Dinadan that exposes King Mark's treason. Sir Tristram encourages Eliot to sing it before the king, promising his protection. When the harper performs the song, King Mark becomes furious but spares Eliot because he is a minstrel. The harper then reports to Tristram, who sends letters to Launcelot and Dinadan and arranges the harper's safe departure. King Mark, suspecting Tristram's involvement, plots to kill him and his supporters.
Chapter 161
How King Mark slew by treason his brother Boudwin, for good service that he had done to him
King Mark, envious of his brother Prince Boudwin's popularity and his love for Sir Tristram, treacherously murders Boudwin after he heroically defeats the Saracens. The prince's wife, Anglides, escapes with their young son Alisander le Orphelin to save him from the king's murderous intent.
Chapter 162
How Anglides Escapes with Alisander le Orphelin
After King Mark murders Prince Boudwin, he seeks to kill Anglides and her young son Alisander. Sir Sadok, sent to retrieve them, instead allows Anglides to flee with her son on the promise that Alisander will one day avenge his father's death. Anglides escapes to the Castle of Magouns (Arundel), where she is welcomed and raises Alisander until he becomes strong and skilled.
Chapter 163
How Anglides Gave the Bloody Doublet to Alisander
Anglides, mother of Alisander, arranges for her son to be knighted on Our Lady Day in Lent. On the day of his knighting, she presents him with his father's bloody doublet and shirt, revealing that King Mark murdered his father before her eyes, and charges him with the duty of vengeance.
Chapter 164
How it was told to King Mark of Sir Alisander, and how he would have slain Sir Sadok for saving his life
Alisander le Orphelin is made a knight and charged by his mother to avenge his father's death at the hands of King Mark. After proving his prowess in jousts, news reaches King Mark, who attempts to kill Sir Sadok for saving Alisander. Sir Sadok defends himself and flees. Sir Tristram sends Alisander a letter urging him to join King Arthur's court under Sir Launcelot. King Mark, enraged, conspires with Queen Morgan le Fay and the Queen of Northgalis to use enchantresses and dangerous knights to destroy Alisander.
Chapter 165
Book VIII
This chapter recounts the tragic love story of Sir Tristram and La Beale Isoud, beginning with Tristram's birth and early adventures. It details his combat with Sir Marhaus, his journey to Ireland to fetch Isoud for King Mark, and the accidental drinking of the love potion that binds them in eternal love. The narrative follows their subsequent trials, including Tristram's exile, his encounters with Sir Palomides, and the ongoing conflict with King Mark, all set against the backdrop of chivalric honor and courtly intrigue.
Chapter 166
How Sir Mordred presumed and took on him to be King of England, and would have married the queen, his father’s wife.
Sir Mordred, having spread false news of King Arthur's death, seizes the throne and attempts to marry Queen Guenever. She feigns agreement but escapes to the Tower of London, which she fortifies against Mordred's siege. The Bishop of Canterbury curses Mordred and flees. Mordred gathers a large army, and many Englishmen side with him, disloyal to Arthur. Word arrives that Arthur is returning from France, and Mordred prepares to meet him at Dover.
Chapter 167
How after that King Arthur had tidings, he returned and came to Dover, where Sir Mordred met him to let his landing; and of the death of Sir Gawaine.
King Arthur returns to England with a great navy to confront Sir Mordred, who has usurped the throne and attempted to marry Queen Guenever. After a fierce battle at Dover, Arthur's forces land and put Mordred to flight. The mortally wounded Sir Gawaine is found, and he writes a letter to Sir Launcelot, taking responsibility for his own death and urging Launcelot to return and rescue King Arthur from the traitor Mordred. Gawaine dies at noon, and Arthur buries him in a chapel at Dover Castle.
Chapter 168
III
King Arthur dreams of Sir Gawaine, who warns him not to fight Sir Mordred the next day, as he would be slain; Arthur sends Sir Lucan and Sir Bedivere to negotiate a month-long truce with Mordred, who agrees to take Cornwall and Kent during Arthur's reign and all England after.
Chapter 169
How by misadventure of an adder the battle began, where Mordred was slain, and Arthur hurt to the death.
King Arthur and Sir Mordred meet for a parley, but an adder stings a knight, causing him to draw his sword and triggering a full-scale battle. Both armies fight fiercely, resulting in massive casualties. Arthur and Mordred mortally wound each other; Mordred dies, and Arthur is gravely injured. Only Sir Lucan and Sir Bedivere survive among Arthur's knights. After the battle, robbers plunder the dead, and the survivors attempt to move Arthur to safety.
Chapter 170
How King Arthur commanded to cast his sword Excalibur into the water, and how he was delivered to ladies in a barge
King Arthur, mortally wounded, commands Sir Bedivere to throw Excalibur into the lake. After twice hiding the sword, Bedivere finally obeys, and a hand rises from the water to catch it. Arthur is then carried to a barge of mourning queens and departs for the vale of Avilion, leaving Bedivere alone.
Chapter 171
How Sir Bedivere Found Him on the Morrow Dead in an Hermitage
Sir Bedivere discovers King Arthur's tomb in a chapel and learns from the hermit (formerly the Bishop of Canterbury) that ladies brought the body at midnight. Bedivere resolves to stay and live a life of fasting and prayer, and the hermit welcomes him, revealing he knows Bedivere as the brother of Sir Lucan the Butler. Bedivere recounts the tale, and the chapter concludes with the account of Arthur being led away in a ship by three queens and Nimue, the Lady of the Lake.
Chapter 172
Of the opinion of some men of the death of King Arthur; and how Queen Guenever made her a nun in Almesbury
The chapter recounts the differing beliefs about King Arthur's death, with some saying he was taken to another place and will return to win the holy cross, while others maintain he changed his life in this world. It describes the inscription on his tomb: 'Hic jacet Arthurus, Rex quondam, Rexque futurus.' Sir Bedivere remains with a hermit at Glastonbury, living in prayer and abstinence. Upon learning of Arthur's death and the loss of the knights, Queen Guenever secretly goes to Almesbury with five ladies, becomes a nun, and devotes herself to penance, fasting, and alms-deeds, eventually becoming abbess.
Chapter 173
How Sir Lancelot Heard of the Death of King Arthur and of Sir Gawaine
Sir Launcelot, upon hearing of King Arthur's death and Sir Mordred's usurpation, returns to England with a great host. He mourns Sir Gawaine at his tomb in Dover, distributes alms, and then sets out to seek Queen Guenever, who has fled westward.
Chapter 174
How Sir Launcelot Departed to Seek the Queen Guenever
Sir Launcelot, against the advice of Sir Bors, sets out alone to find Queen Guenever. After searching for seven or eight days, he discovers her at a nunnery in Almesbury. The queen, overwhelmed with grief and guilt, blames their love for the war and the death of King Arthur and many noble knights. She commands Launcelot to forsake her company, return to his realm, and take a wife, while she devotes herself to a religious life. Launcelot refuses to marry, pledging instead to join her in religious devotion and prayer.
Chapter 175
How Sir Launcelot came to the hermitage where the Archbishop of Canterbury was, and how he took the habit on him
After the final parting with Queen Guenever, Sir Launcelot rides in sorrow to a hermitage where the Bishop of Canterbury (formerly the Archbishop) is. He takes the religious habit, confesses, and becomes a brother. Over time, Sir Bors and six other knights join him in penance. After six years, Launcelot becomes a priest. A vision thrice commands him to go to Almesbury, where he will find Queen Guenever dead, and to bury her beside King Arthur.
Chapter 176
XI
Sir Launcelot and his eight fellows travel from Glastonbury to Almesbury, where they find Queen Guenever has just died. Launcelot performs the funeral service himself, and they bring her body back to Glastonbury for burial beside King Arthur. Launcelot is overcome with grief and remorse, blaming his own pride and default for the deaths of Arthur and Guenever.
Chapter 177
How Sir Launcelot Began to Sicken, and After Died, Whose Body Was Borne to Joyous Gard for to Be Buried
Sir Launcelot, grief-stricken by the deaths of King Arthur and Queen Guenever, refuses food and drink, wasting away until he dies. He receives last rites, requests his body be taken to Joyous Gard, and dies peacefully. The Bishop has a vision of angels carrying Launcelot to heaven. His body is brought to Joyous Gard, where Sir Ector de Maris arrives after seven years of searching.
Chapter 178
How Sir Ector found Sir Launcelot his brother dead, and how Constantine reigned next after Arthur; and of the end of this book.
Sir Ector discovers the body of his brother Sir Launcelot at Joyous Gard and delivers a poignant eulogy. Launcelot is buried with great devotion. Sir Constantine is chosen king of England and restores the Bishop of Canterbury. Several knights, including Sir Bors, Sir Ector, Sir Blamore, and Sir Bleoberis, depart for the Holy Land, where they die fighting the miscreants. The book concludes with Malory's prayer and a note on the completion of Le Morte Darthur.
Chapter 179
XIV
The Pope sends bulls to King Arthur to make peace, and Sir Launcelot agrees to return Queen Guenever to the king. Despite Sir Gawaine's opposition, Launcelot brings the queen to Carlisle with great ceremony, leading her before Arthur and Gawaine, where many weep.
Chapter 180
Of the deliverance of the queen to the king by Sir Launcelot, and what language Sir Gawaine had to Sir Launcelot.
Sir Launcelot returns Queen Guenever to King Arthur, asserting her innocence and challenging any knight who claims otherwise. He recounts his past services to Arthur and Gawaine, including rescuing Gawaine from Sir Carados and Gaheris from Sir Turquin, and laments the lies that caused the rift between them.
Chapter 181
XVI
Sir Gawaine confronts Sir Launcelot, refusing reconciliation for the deaths of his brothers Sir Gareth and Sir Gaheris. Launcelot offers to build religious houses in their memory, but Gawaine insists on eternal enmity, though the Pope's command forces a temporary truce.
Chapter 182
XVII
Sir Launcelot, banished from the court, departs from King Arthur and Queen Guenever, taking his leave amid great sorrow from the knights and ladies. He vows to defend the queen's honor and prepares to leave the realm, with many knights pledging to follow him into exile.
Chapter 183
How Sir Launcelot Passed Over the Sea
Sir Launcelot, anticipating trouble from Sir Mordred, departs with a hundred knights from Cardiff to Benwick. He establishes his rule over France, crowns his kinsmen as kings and dukes, and rewards his loyal knights with lands and titles.
Chapter 184
How King Arthur and Sir Gawaine made a great host ready to go over sea to make war on Sir Launcelot
King Arthur and Sir Gawaine assemble a massive army of sixty thousand men and sail from Cardiff to invade Sir Launcelot's lands. Arthur appoints Sir Mordred as chief ruler of England and places Queen Guenever under his governance. Upon landing, they burn and waste Launcelot's territories. Sir Launcelot's knights urge him to fight back, but he hesitates to shed Christian blood and instead sends a damosel to King Arthur with a peace offer. King Arthur is moved to tears and inclined to accept, but Sir Gawaine insists they continue the war, and Arthur defers to his nephew's counsel.
Chapter 185
The Siege of Benwick: Sir Gawaine's Challenge
Sir Gawaine sends a damosel to Sir Launcelot with a message that peace is too late and he will never cease until one of them is slain. King Arthur lays siege to Benwick, and Sir Gawaine daily challenges the knights, smiting down Sir Bors and Sir Lionel. After enduring half a year, Sir Launcelot, moved by Gawaine's accusations of treason and the urging of his kin, finally arms himself to defend his honor against the king who knighted him.
Chapter 186
How Sir Launcelot and Sir Gawaine did battle together, and how Sir Gawaine was overthrown and hurt
Sir Launcelot and Sir Gawaine engage in a fierce duel. Gawaine's strength magically increases until noon, but Launcelot endures his attacks. After noon, Gawaine's power wanes, and Launcelot overthrows him, refusing to kill a fallen knight. Launcelot then departs into the city, leaving Gawaine to be healed.
Chapter 187
XXII
King Arthur laments the war with Sir Launcelot, especially after Sir Gawaine is wounded. Sir Gawaine recovers and challenges Launcelot again, but Launcelot defeats him once more, though he refuses to strike a fallen man. News from England then forces Arthur to lift the siege.
Chapter 188
How Sir Launcelot behaved him at the jousts, and other men also
At a great tournament, King Arthur and his knights engage in fierce jousting. Sir Launcelot, accompanied by Sir Lavaine, enters the field and performs extraordinary feats, smiting down many knights of the Round Table. Sir Gareth, disguised with a green shield, joins Launcelot to aid him against King Arthur and nine knights, including Sir Gawaine and Sir Palomides. The three allies fight together, with Sir Gareth unhorsing over thirty knights, while the knights of Launcelot's blood hold the opposing kings at bay.
Chapter 189
How King Arthur marvelled much of the jousting in the field, and how he rode and found Sir Launcelot
King Arthur and his knights marvel at the prowess of a mysterious knight with a red sleeve of gold, whom Sir Gawaine identifies as Sir Launcelot, accompanied by Sir Lavaine and Sir Gareth. After the tournament, Arthur discovers Launcelot's identity and learns of his wound from a huntress. Arthur praises Gareth for aiding Launcelot, and the chapter concludes with feasts and celebrations.
Chapter 190
How True Love is Likened to Summer
The narrator reflects on the nature of true love, comparing it to the flourishing of May and contrasting the steadfast love of old with the fickle passions of the present day. Queen Guenever is cited as an example of a true lover who had a good end.
Chapter 191
How King Arthur, the Queen, and Launcelot received letters out of Cornwall, and of the answer again.
A knight named Fergus brings good tidings and letters from Sir Tristram to King Arthur, Queen Guenever, and Sir Launcelot. They send letters back, with Launcelot warning Tristram to beware of King Mark, whom he calls 'King Fox.' The damosel also brings letters to La Beale Isoud, who expresses her mutual suffering with Tristram. King Mark, suspecting treason, sends secret letters to Arthur, Guenever, and Launcelot, telling Arthur to mind his own affairs.
Chapter 192
How Sir Launcelot was wroth with the letter that he received from King Mark, and of Dinadan which made a lay of King Mark.
King Arthur and Queen Guenever receive letters from King Mark accusing Sir Tristram and slandering Guenever and Sir Launcelot. Arthur initially muses on Morgan le Fay's past words but dismisses them, knowing his sister's enmity. Guenever sends her letter to Launcelot, who becomes furious and takes to his bed. Sir Dinadan, a trusted knight, steals the letter, reads it, and counsels Launcelot to ignore the threats. Dinadan then composes a mocking lay about King Mark and has it taught to harpers to sing throughout Wales and Cornwall.
Chapter 193
How Sir Tristram was hurt, and of a war made to King Mark; and of Sir Tristram how he promised to rescue him.
Sir Tristram, recovering from wounds sustained in jousts and tournaments, is summoned by King Mark to defend Cornwall against an invading host from Sessoin led by Elias. Despite his hatred for Tristram, Mark is compelled to seek his aid. Tristram, unable to fight immediately due to his injuries, promises to help once healed. King Mark engages the enemy but is forced to retreat to Tintagil Castle. Tristram, now healed, gathers ten knights of Arthur's and secretly enters the castle, slaying several enemy knights and bringing hope to the defenders.
Chapter 194
How Sir Tristram overcame the battle, and how Elias desired a man to fight body for body.
Elias the captain challenges King Mark to battle, and Sir Tristram takes command of the Cornish forces. Tristram burns the enemy ships, then leads a fierce battle where he performs great deeds of arms. After heavy losses on both sides, Elias proposes a single combat to decide the truage of Cornwall. King Mark and his barons agree to find a champion.
Chapter 195
How Sir Elias and Sir Tristram fought together for the truage, and how Sir Tristram slew Elias in the field
King Mark of Cornwall is dismayed when no knight dares to fight the champion Elias, who demands truage. Sir Tristram, though weary and wounded from the previous day's battle, volunteers to fight. After a fierce combat, Tristram is initially overwhelmed but rallies upon remembering his lady La Beale Isoud. He defeats and slays Elias, saving Cornwall from the truage. Despite this, King Mark harbors treacherous intentions toward Tristram, but Tristram remains oblivious, drawn by his love for Isoud.
Chapter 196
How at a great feast that King Mark made an harper came and sang the lay that Dinadan had made
At a feast celebrating the expulsion of the Sessoins from Cornwall, King Mark hosts a great celebration. Eliot the harper arrives, secretly bearing a lay composed by Sir Dinadan that exposes King Mark's treason. Sir Tristram encourages Eliot to sing it before the king, promising his protection. When the harper performs the song, King Mark becomes furious but spares Eliot because he is a minstrel. The harper then reports to Tristram, who sends letters to Launcelot and Dinadan and arranges the harper's safe departure. King Mark, suspecting Tristram's involvement, plots to kill him and his supporters.
Chapter 197
How King Mark slew by treason his brother Boudwin, for good service that he had done to him
King Mark, envious of his brother Prince Boudwin's popularity and his love for Sir Tristram, treacherously murders Boudwin after he heroically defeats the Saracens. The prince's wife, Anglides, escapes with their young son Alisander le Orphelin to save him from the king's murderous intent.
Chapter 198
How Anglides Escapes with Alisander le Orphelin
After King Mark murders Prince Boudwin, he seeks to kill Anglides and her young son Alisander. Sir Sadok, sent to retrieve them, instead allows Anglides to flee with her son on the promise that Alisander will one day avenge his father's death. Anglides escapes to the Castle of Magouns (Arundel), where she is welcomed and raises Alisander until he becomes strong and skilled.
Chapter 199
How Anglides Gave the Bloody Doublet to Alisander
Anglides, mother of Alisander, arranges for her son to be knighted on Our Lady Day in Lent. On the day of his knighting, she presents him with his father's bloody doublet and shirt, revealing that King Mark murdered his father before her eyes, and charges him with the duty of vengeance.
Chapter 200
How it was told to King Mark of Sir Alisander, and how he would have slain Sir Sadok for saving his life
Alisander le Orphelin is made a knight and charged by his mother to avenge his father's death at the hands of King Mark. After proving his prowess in jousts, news reaches King Mark, who attempts to kill Sir Sadok for saving Alisander. Sir Sadok defends himself and flees. Sir Tristram sends Alisander a letter urging him to join King Arthur's court under Sir Launcelot. King Mark, enraged, conspires with Queen Morgan le Fay and the Queen of Northgalis to use enchantresses and dangerous knights to destroy Alisander.
Chapter 201
How Sir Alisander won the prize at a tournament, and of Morgan le Fay: and how he fought with Sir Malgrin, and slew him.
Sir Alisander le Orphelin, carrying his father's bloody shirt as a token, rides toward London but goes astray by the seaside. He wins a tournament made by King Carados, smiting down the king and twenty knights, including Sir Safere. Morgan le Fay, observing, desires to meet him. Later, at a damosel's request, Alisander battles the evil knight Malgrin, who confesses to having slain twenty knights. After a fierce three-hour fight, Alisander beheads Malgrin but suffers sixteen grievous wounds, one mortal.
Chapter 202
How Queen Morgan le Fay had Alisander in her castle, and how she healed his wounds
Queen Morgan le Fay takes Alisander le Orphelin into her castle, first poisoning him with ointment before healing him. She manipulates him into refusing marriage to the damosel who won him, then gives him a sleeping draught and transports him to her castle La Beale Regard. There she extracts a promise from him to remain within the castle for a year and a day in exchange for his health. Alisander later regrets his oath as it prevents him from seeking vengeance on King Mark. A damosel, cousin to the Earl of Pase and Morgan le Fay, arrives and finds Alisander sorrowful.
Chapter 203
How Alisander was delivered from Queen Morgan le Fay by the means of a damosel
Alisander, held prisoner by Queen Morgan le Fay, is aided by a damosel who arranges for her uncle, the Earl of Pase, to destroy the castle. Alisander escapes through a postern and declares he will keep the ground for a year and a day. A duke's daughter, Alice la Beale Pilgrim, arrives and offers herself and her lands to any knight who can defeat him. Sir Sagramore le Desirous jousts with Alisander and is unhorsed; Alice is impressed and declares her love for Alisander.
Chapter 204
How Alisander met with Alice la Beale Pilgrim, and how he jousted with two knights; and after of him and of Sir Mordred.
Sir Alisander le Orphelin meets and falls in love with Alice la Beale Pilgrim. He defeats several knights in jousts, making them swear to wear no armor for a year. The false knight Sir Mordred attempts to shame Alisander by leading his horse away while he is distracted by love, but a damosel who helped Alisander earlier strikes him to wake him. Mordred escapes. Alisander continues to joust daily for a year, never being defeated, then departs with Alice and the damosel to live in Benoye.
Chapter 205
How Sir Galahalt Did Cry a Jousts in Surluse
The chapter recounts the fate of Alisander le Orphelin, who was slain by King Mark by treason, and his son Bellengerus later avenges him. It then shifts to Sir Galahalt, the haut prince, who requests King Arthur's leave to hold a grand joust in Surluse. Queen Guenever is granted permission to attend with Sir Launcelot and chosen knights, and the joust is proclaimed throughout the land, drawing many noble participants.
Chapter 206
XLI
In a grand tournament, Sir Launcelot fights disguised at the request of Queen Guenever and King Bagdemagus, unhorsing his own brother Sir Ector de Maris and Sir Bleoberis, and striking down the King of Northgalis. Meanwhile, Sir Palomides, disguised with the Questing Beast device, champions a damosel in a judicial combat, beheading her adversary Sir Goneries, though the damosel is revealed to be his kin. Sir Meliagaunce plots against Launcelot, and the haut prince orchestrates the jousts.
Chapter 207
Book IX
Sir Tristram returns to Cornwall and faces conflict with King Mark over La Beale Isoud. He engages in numerous adventures and jousts, including encounters with Sir Palomides and other knights. The chapter also follows the exploits of Sir Launcelot and other knights of the Round Table.
Chapter 208
How Sir Mordred presumed and took on him to be King of England, and would have married the queen, his father’s wife.
Sir Mordred, having spread false news of King Arthur's death, seizes the throne and attempts to marry Queen Guenever. She feigns agreement but escapes to the Tower of London, which she fortifies against Mordred's siege. The Bishop of Canterbury curses Mordred and flees. Mordred gathers a large army, and many Englishmen side with him, disloyal to Arthur. Word arrives that Arthur is returning from France, and Mordred prepares to meet him at Dover.
Chapter 209
How after that King Arthur had tidings, he returned and came to Dover, where Sir Mordred met him to let his landing; and of the death of Sir Gawaine.
King Arthur returns to England with a great navy to confront Sir Mordred, who has usurped the throne and attempted to marry Queen Guenever. After a fierce battle at Dover, Arthur's forces land and put Mordred to flight. The mortally wounded Sir Gawaine is found, and he writes a letter to Sir Launcelot, taking responsibility for his own death and urging Launcelot to return and rescue King Arthur from the traitor Mordred. Gawaine dies at noon, and Arthur buries him in a chapel at Dover Castle.
Chapter 210
III
King Arthur dreams of Sir Gawaine, who warns him not to fight Sir Mordred the next day, as he would be slain; Arthur sends Sir Lucan and Sir Bedivere to negotiate a month-long truce with Mordred, who agrees to take Cornwall and Kent during Arthur's reign and all England after.
Chapter 211
How by misadventure of an adder the battle began, where Mordred was slain, and Arthur hurt to the death.
King Arthur and Sir Mordred meet for a parley, but an adder stings a knight, causing him to draw his sword and triggering a full-scale battle. Both armies fight fiercely, resulting in massive casualties. Arthur and Mordred mortally wound each other; Mordred dies, and Arthur is gravely injured. Only Sir Lucan and Sir Bedivere survive among Arthur's knights. After the battle, robbers plunder the dead, and the survivors attempt to move Arthur to safety.
Chapter 212
How King Arthur commanded to cast his sword Excalibur into the water, and how he was delivered to ladies in a barge
King Arthur, mortally wounded, commands Sir Bedivere to throw Excalibur into the lake. After twice hiding the sword, Bedivere finally obeys, and a hand rises from the water to catch it. Arthur is then carried to a barge of mourning queens and departs for the vale of Avilion, leaving Bedivere alone.
Chapter 213
How Sir Bedivere Found Him on the Morrow Dead in an Hermitage
Sir Bedivere discovers King Arthur's tomb in a chapel and learns from the hermit (formerly the Bishop of Canterbury) that ladies brought the body at midnight. Bedivere resolves to stay and live a life of fasting and prayer, and the hermit welcomes him, revealing he knows Bedivere as the brother of Sir Lucan the Butler. Bedivere recounts the tale, and the chapter concludes with the account of Arthur being led away in a ship by three queens and Nimue, the Lady of the Lake.
Chapter 214
Of the opinion of some men of the death of King Arthur; and how Queen Guenever made her a nun in Almesbury
The chapter recounts the differing beliefs about King Arthur's death, with some saying he was taken to another place and will return to win the holy cross, while others maintain he changed his life in this world. It describes the inscription on his tomb: 'Hic jacet Arthurus, Rex quondam, Rexque futurus.' Sir Bedivere remains with a hermit at Glastonbury, living in prayer and abstinence. Upon learning of Arthur's death and the loss of the knights, Queen Guenever secretly goes to Almesbury with five ladies, becomes a nun, and devotes herself to penance, fasting, and alms-deeds, eventually becoming abbess.
Chapter 215
How Sir Lancelot Heard of the Death of King Arthur and of Sir Gawaine
Sir Launcelot, upon hearing of King Arthur's death and Sir Mordred's usurpation, returns to England with a great host. He mourns Sir Gawaine at his tomb in Dover, distributes alms, and then sets out to seek Queen Guenever, who has fled westward.
Chapter 216
How Sir Launcelot Departed to Seek the Queen Guenever
Sir Launcelot, against the advice of Sir Bors, sets out alone to find Queen Guenever. After searching for seven or eight days, he discovers her at a nunnery in Almesbury. The queen, overwhelmed with grief and guilt, blames their love for the war and the death of King Arthur and many noble knights. She commands Launcelot to forsake her company, return to his realm, and take a wife, while she devotes herself to a religious life. Launcelot refuses to marry, pledging instead to join her in religious devotion and prayer.
Chapter 217
How Sir Launcelot came to the hermitage where the Archbishop of Canterbury was, and how he took the habit on him
After the final parting with Queen Guenever, Sir Launcelot rides in sorrow to a hermitage where the Bishop of Canterbury (formerly the Archbishop) is. He takes the religious habit, confesses, and becomes a brother. Over time, Sir Bors and six other knights join him in penance. After six years, Launcelot becomes a priest. A vision thrice commands him to go to Almesbury, where he will find Queen Guenever dead, and to bury her beside King Arthur.
Chapter 218
XI
Sir Launcelot and his eight fellows travel from Glastonbury to Almesbury, where they find Queen Guenever has just died. Launcelot performs the funeral service himself, and they bring her body back to Glastonbury for burial beside King Arthur. Launcelot is overcome with grief and remorse, blaming his own pride and default for the deaths of Arthur and Guenever.
Chapter 219
How Sir Launcelot Began to Sicken, and After Died, Whose Body Was Borne to Joyous Gard for to Be Buried
Sir Launcelot, grief-stricken by the deaths of King Arthur and Queen Guenever, refuses food and drink, wasting away until he dies. He receives last rites, requests his body be taken to Joyous Gard, and dies peacefully. The Bishop has a vision of angels carrying Launcelot to heaven. His body is brought to Joyous Gard, where Sir Ector de Maris arrives after seven years of searching.
Chapter 220
How Sir Ector found Sir Launcelot his brother dead, and how Constantine reigned next after Arthur; and of the end of this book.
Sir Ector discovers the body of his brother Sir Launcelot at Joyous Gard and delivers a poignant eulogy. Launcelot is buried with great devotion. Sir Constantine is chosen king of England and restores the Bishop of Canterbury. Several knights, including Sir Bors, Sir Ector, Sir Blamore, and Sir Bleoberis, depart for the Holy Land, where they die fighting the miscreants. The book concludes with Malory's prayer and a note on the completion of Le Morte Darthur.
Chapter 221
XIV
The Pope sends bulls to King Arthur to make peace, and Sir Launcelot agrees to return Queen Guenever to the king. Despite Sir Gawaine's opposition, Launcelot brings the queen to Carlisle with great ceremony, leading her before Arthur and Gawaine, where many weep.
Chapter 222
Of the deliverance of the queen to the king by Sir Launcelot, and what language Sir Gawaine had to Sir Launcelot.
Sir Launcelot returns Queen Guenever to King Arthur, asserting her innocence and challenging any knight who claims otherwise. He recounts his past services to Arthur and Gawaine, including rescuing Gawaine from Sir Carados and Gaheris from Sir Turquin, and laments the lies that caused the rift between them.
Chapter 223
XVI
Sir Gawaine confronts Sir Launcelot, refusing reconciliation for the deaths of his brothers Sir Gareth and Sir Gaheris. Launcelot offers to build religious houses in their memory, but Gawaine insists on eternal enmity, though the Pope's command forces a temporary truce.
Chapter 224
XVII
Sir Launcelot, banished from the court, departs from King Arthur and Queen Guenever, taking his leave amid great sorrow from the knights and ladies. He vows to defend the queen's honor and prepares to leave the realm, with many knights pledging to follow him into exile.
Chapter 225
How Sir Launcelot Passed Over the Sea
Sir Launcelot, anticipating trouble from Sir Mordred, departs with a hundred knights from Cardiff to Benwick. He establishes his rule over France, crowns his kinsmen as kings and dukes, and rewards his loyal knights with lands and titles.
Chapter 226
How King Arthur and Sir Gawaine made a great host ready to go over sea to make war on Sir Launcelot
King Arthur and Sir Gawaine assemble a massive army of sixty thousand men and sail from Cardiff to invade Sir Launcelot's lands. Arthur appoints Sir Mordred as chief ruler of England and places Queen Guenever under his governance. Upon landing, they burn and waste Launcelot's territories. Sir Launcelot's knights urge him to fight back, but he hesitates to shed Christian blood and instead sends a damosel to King Arthur with a peace offer. King Arthur is moved to tears and inclined to accept, but Sir Gawaine insists they continue the war, and Arthur defers to his nephew's counsel.
Chapter 227
The Siege of Benwick: Sir Gawaine's Challenge
Sir Gawaine sends a damosel to Sir Launcelot with a message that peace is too late and he will never cease until one of them is slain. King Arthur lays siege to Benwick, and Sir Gawaine daily challenges the knights, smiting down Sir Bors and Sir Lionel. After enduring half a year, Sir Launcelot, moved by Gawaine's accusations of treason and the urging of his kin, finally arms himself to defend his honor against the king who knighted him.
Chapter 228
How Sir Launcelot and Sir Gawaine did battle together, and how Sir Gawaine was overthrown and hurt
Sir Launcelot and Sir Gawaine engage in a fierce duel. Gawaine's strength magically increases until noon, but Launcelot endures his attacks. After noon, Gawaine's power wanes, and Launcelot overthrows him, refusing to kill a fallen knight. Launcelot then departs into the city, leaving Gawaine to be healed.
Chapter 229
XXII
King Arthur laments the war with Sir Launcelot, especially after Sir Gawaine is wounded. Sir Gawaine recovers and challenges Launcelot again, but Launcelot defeats him once more, though he refuses to strike a fallen man. News from England then forces Arthur to lift the siege.
Chapter 230
How Sir Launcelot behaved him at the jousts, and other men also
At a great tournament, King Arthur and his knights engage in fierce jousting. Sir Launcelot, accompanied by Sir Lavaine, enters the field and performs extraordinary feats, smiting down many knights of the Round Table. Sir Gareth, disguised with a green shield, joins Launcelot to aid him against King Arthur and nine knights, including Sir Gawaine and Sir Palomides. The three allies fight together, with Sir Gareth unhorsing over thirty knights, while the knights of Launcelot's blood hold the opposing kings at bay.
Chapter 231
How King Arthur marvelled much of the jousting in the field, and how he rode and found Sir Launcelot
King Arthur and his knights marvel at the prowess of a mysterious knight with a red sleeve of gold, whom Sir Gawaine identifies as Sir Launcelot, accompanied by Sir Lavaine and Sir Gareth. After the tournament, Arthur discovers Launcelot's identity and learns of his wound from a huntress. Arthur praises Gareth for aiding Launcelot, and the chapter concludes with feasts and celebrations.
Chapter 232
How True Love is Likened to Summer
The narrator reflects on the nature of true love, comparing it to the flourishing of May and contrasting the steadfast love of old with the fickle passions of the present day. Queen Guenever is cited as an example of a true lover who had a good end.
Chapter 233
How King Arthur, the Queen, and Launcelot received letters out of Cornwall, and of the answer again.
A knight named Fergus brings good tidings and letters from Sir Tristram to King Arthur, Queen Guenever, and Sir Launcelot. They send letters back, with Launcelot warning Tristram to beware of King Mark, whom he calls 'King Fox.' The damosel also brings letters to La Beale Isoud, who expresses her mutual suffering with Tristram. King Mark, suspecting treason, sends secret letters to Arthur, Guenever, and Launcelot, telling Arthur to mind his own affairs.
Chapter 234
How Sir Launcelot was wroth with the letter that he received from King Mark, and of Dinadan which made a lay of King Mark.
King Arthur and Queen Guenever receive letters from King Mark accusing Sir Tristram and slandering Guenever and Sir Launcelot. Arthur initially muses on Morgan le Fay's past words but dismisses them, knowing his sister's enmity. Guenever sends her letter to Launcelot, who becomes furious and takes to his bed. Sir Dinadan, a trusted knight, steals the letter, reads it, and counsels Launcelot to ignore the threats. Dinadan then composes a mocking lay about King Mark and has it taught to harpers to sing throughout Wales and Cornwall.
Chapter 235
How Sir Tristram was hurt, and of a war made to King Mark; and of Sir Tristram how he promised to rescue him.
Sir Tristram, recovering from wounds sustained in jousts and tournaments, is summoned by King Mark to defend Cornwall against an invading host from Sessoin led by Elias. Despite his hatred for Tristram, Mark is compelled to seek his aid. Tristram, unable to fight immediately due to his injuries, promises to help once healed. King Mark engages the enemy but is forced to retreat to Tintagil Castle. Tristram, now healed, gathers ten knights of Arthur's and secretly enters the castle, slaying several enemy knights and bringing hope to the defenders.
Chapter 236
How Sir Tristram overcame the battle, and how Elias desired a man to fight body for body.
Elias the captain challenges King Mark to battle, and Sir Tristram takes command of the Cornish forces. Tristram burns the enemy ships, then leads a fierce battle where he performs great deeds of arms. After heavy losses on both sides, Elias proposes a single combat to decide the truage of Cornwall. King Mark and his barons agree to find a champion.
Chapter 237
How Sir Elias and Sir Tristram fought together for the truage, and how Sir Tristram slew Elias in the field
King Mark of Cornwall is dismayed when no knight dares to fight the champion Elias, who demands truage. Sir Tristram, though weary and wounded from the previous day's battle, volunteers to fight. After a fierce combat, Tristram is initially overwhelmed but rallies upon remembering his lady La Beale Isoud. He defeats and slays Elias, saving Cornwall from the truage. Despite this, King Mark harbors treacherous intentions toward Tristram, but Tristram remains oblivious, drawn by his love for Isoud.
Chapter 238
How at a great feast that King Mark made an harper came and sang the lay that Dinadan had made
At a feast celebrating the expulsion of the Sessoins from Cornwall, King Mark hosts a great celebration. Eliot the harper arrives, secretly bearing a lay composed by Sir Dinadan that exposes King Mark's treason. Sir Tristram encourages Eliot to sing it before the king, promising his protection. When the harper performs the song, King Mark becomes furious but spares Eliot because he is a minstrel. The harper then reports to Tristram, who sends letters to Launcelot and Dinadan and arranges the harper's safe departure. King Mark, suspecting Tristram's involvement, plots to kill him and his supporters.
Chapter 239
How King Mark slew by treason his brother Boudwin, for good service that he had done to him
King Mark, envious of his brother Prince Boudwin's popularity and his love for Sir Tristram, treacherously murders Boudwin after he heroically defeats the Saracens. The prince's wife, Anglides, escapes with their young son Alisander le Orphelin to save him from the king's murderous intent.
Chapter 240
How Anglides Escapes with Alisander le Orphelin
After King Mark murders Prince Boudwin, he seeks to kill Anglides and her young son Alisander. Sir Sadok, sent to retrieve them, instead allows Anglides to flee with her son on the promise that Alisander will one day avenge his father's death. Anglides escapes to the Castle of Magouns (Arundel), where she is welcomed and raises Alisander until he becomes strong and skilled.
Chapter 241
How Anglides Gave the Bloody Doublet to Alisander
Anglides, mother of Alisander, arranges for her son to be knighted on Our Lady Day in Lent. On the day of his knighting, she presents him with his father's bloody doublet and shirt, revealing that King Mark murdered his father before her eyes, and charges him with the duty of vengeance.
Chapter 242
How it was told to King Mark of Sir Alisander, and how he would have slain Sir Sadok for saving his life
Alisander le Orphelin is made a knight and charged by his mother to avenge his father's death at the hands of King Mark. After proving his prowess in jousts, news reaches King Mark, who attempts to kill Sir Sadok for saving Alisander. Sir Sadok defends himself and flees. Sir Tristram sends Alisander a letter urging him to join King Arthur's court under Sir Launcelot. King Mark, enraged, conspires with Queen Morgan le Fay and the Queen of Northgalis to use enchantresses and dangerous knights to destroy Alisander.
Chapter 243
How Sir Alisander won the prize at a tournament, and of Morgan le Fay: and how he fought with Sir Malgrin, and slew him.
Sir Alisander le Orphelin, carrying his father's bloody shirt as a token, rides toward London but goes astray by the seaside. He wins a tournament made by King Carados, smiting down the king and twenty knights, including Sir Safere. Morgan le Fay, observing, desires to meet him. Later, at a damosel's request, Alisander battles the evil knight Malgrin, who confesses to having slain twenty knights. After a fierce three-hour fight, Alisander beheads Malgrin but suffers sixteen grievous wounds, one mortal.
Chapter 244
How Queen Morgan le Fay had Alisander in her castle, and how she healed his wounds
Queen Morgan le Fay takes Alisander le Orphelin into her castle, first poisoning him with ointment before healing him. She manipulates him into refusing marriage to the damosel who won him, then gives him a sleeping draught and transports him to her castle La Beale Regard. There she extracts a promise from him to remain within the castle for a year and a day in exchange for his health. Alisander later regrets his oath as it prevents him from seeking vengeance on King Mark. A damosel, cousin to the Earl of Pase and Morgan le Fay, arrives and finds Alisander sorrowful.
Chapter 245
How Alisander was delivered from Queen Morgan le Fay by the means of a damosel
Alisander, held prisoner by Queen Morgan le Fay, is aided by a damosel who arranges for her uncle, the Earl of Pase, to destroy the castle. Alisander escapes through a postern and declares he will keep the ground for a year and a day. A duke's daughter, Alice la Beale Pilgrim, arrives and offers herself and her lands to any knight who can defeat him. Sir Sagramore le Desirous jousts with Alisander and is unhorsed; Alice is impressed and declares her love for Alisander.
Chapter 246
How Alisander met with Alice la Beale Pilgrim, and how he jousted with two knights; and after of him and of Sir Mordred.
Sir Alisander le Orphelin meets and falls in love with Alice la Beale Pilgrim. He defeats several knights in jousts, making them swear to wear no armor for a year. The false knight Sir Mordred attempts to shame Alisander by leading his horse away while he is distracted by love, but a damosel who helped Alisander earlier strikes him to wake him. Mordred escapes. Alisander continues to joust daily for a year, never being defeated, then departs with Alice and the damosel to live in Benoye.
Chapter 247
How Sir Galahalt Did Cry a Jousts in Surluse
The chapter recounts the fate of Alisander le Orphelin, who was slain by King Mark by treason, and his son Bellengerus later avenges him. It then shifts to Sir Galahalt, the haut prince, who requests King Arthur's leave to hold a grand joust in Surluse. Queen Guenever is granted permission to attend with Sir Launcelot and chosen knights, and the joust is proclaimed throughout the land, drawing many noble participants.
Chapter 248
XLI
In a grand tournament, Sir Launcelot fights disguised at the request of Queen Guenever and King Bagdemagus, unhorsing his own brother Sir Ector de Maris and Sir Bleoberis, and striking down the King of Northgalis. Meanwhile, Sir Palomides, disguised with the Questing Beast device, champions a damosel in a judicial combat, beheading her adversary Sir Goneries, though the damosel is revealed to be his kin. Sir Meliagaunce plots against Launcelot, and the haut prince orchestrates the jousts.
Chapter 249
XLII
On the second day of the tournament, Sir Palomides and Sir Galahalt the haut prince engage in a fierce joust and sword fight. Galahalt accidentally strikes Palomides' horse, then offers his own horse in apology, releasing the maiden to Palomides. Sir Dinadan then jousts with Galahalt but escapes his pursuit with witty words. Galahalt later wounds Sir Meliagaunce and another knight. The knights of Northgalis nearly overpower those of Surluse until Semound the Valiant arrives with forty knights. Queen Guenever and Sir Launcelot then call for the end of the day's fighting.
Chapter 250
How Sir Archade appealed Sir Palomides of treason, and how Sir Palomides slew him.
Sir Palomides is accused of treason by Sir Archade, brother of Goneries whom Palomides previously slew. With the permission of the haut prince, they duel after dinner. Palomides defeats Archade, unhorsing him and then beheading him. Queen Guenever and Sir Launcelot witness the combat. Later, King Bagdemagus sends his son Meliagaunce away to prevent a meeting with Launcelot, whom he hates.
Chapter 251
Of the third day, and how Sir Palomides jousted with Sir Lamorak, and other things
On the third day of jousting, King Bagdemagus distinguishes himself in battle against King Marsil and his knights, including Gaheris and the Duke Chaleins of Clarance. Sir Palomides jousts with Sir Blamore de Ganis, both falling hard. Later, a mysterious knight challenges Palomides to a joust; after a fierce fight, the knight is revealed to be Sir Lamorak, whom Sir Launcelot and Queen Guenever praise. Queen Guenever asks Launcelot not to joust against any of King Arthur's blood.
Chapter 252
Book X
The tenth book of Le Morte d'Arthur continues the interwoven tales of Sir Tristram, Sir Launcelot, and other knights of the Round Table, exploring themes of love, chivalry, and conflict.
Chapter 253
How Sir Mordred presumed and took on him to be King of England, and would have married the queen, his father’s wife.
Sir Mordred, having spread false news of King Arthur's death, seizes the throne and attempts to marry Queen Guenever. She feigns agreement but escapes to the Tower of London, which she fortifies against Mordred's siege. The Bishop of Canterbury curses Mordred and flees. Mordred gathers a large army, and many Englishmen side with him, disloyal to Arthur. Word arrives that Arthur is returning from France, and Mordred prepares to meet him at Dover.
Chapter 254
How after that King Arthur had tidings, he returned and came to Dover, where Sir Mordred met him to let his landing; and of the death of Sir Gawaine.
King Arthur returns to England with a great navy to confront Sir Mordred, who has usurped the throne and attempted to marry Queen Guenever. After a fierce battle at Dover, Arthur's forces land and put Mordred to flight. The mortally wounded Sir Gawaine is found, and he writes a letter to Sir Launcelot, taking responsibility for his own death and urging Launcelot to return and rescue King Arthur from the traitor Mordred. Gawaine dies at noon, and Arthur buries him in a chapel at Dover Castle.
Chapter 255
III
King Arthur dreams of Sir Gawaine, who warns him not to fight Sir Mordred the next day, as he would be slain; Arthur sends Sir Lucan and Sir Bedivere to negotiate a month-long truce with Mordred, who agrees to take Cornwall and Kent during Arthur's reign and all England after.
Chapter 256
How by misadventure of an adder the battle began, where Mordred was slain, and Arthur hurt to the death.
King Arthur and Sir Mordred meet for a parley, but an adder stings a knight, causing him to draw his sword and triggering a full-scale battle. Both armies fight fiercely, resulting in massive casualties. Arthur and Mordred mortally wound each other; Mordred dies, and Arthur is gravely injured. Only Sir Lucan and Sir Bedivere survive among Arthur's knights. After the battle, robbers plunder the dead, and the survivors attempt to move Arthur to safety.
Chapter 257
How King Arthur commanded to cast his sword Excalibur into the water, and how he was delivered to ladies in a barge
King Arthur, mortally wounded, commands Sir Bedivere to throw Excalibur into the lake. After twice hiding the sword, Bedivere finally obeys, and a hand rises from the water to catch it. Arthur is then carried to a barge of mourning queens and departs for the vale of Avilion, leaving Bedivere alone.
Chapter 258
How Sir Bedivere Found Him on the Morrow Dead in an Hermitage
Sir Bedivere discovers King Arthur's tomb in a chapel and learns from the hermit (formerly the Bishop of Canterbury) that ladies brought the body at midnight. Bedivere resolves to stay and live a life of fasting and prayer, and the hermit welcomes him, revealing he knows Bedivere as the brother of Sir Lucan the Butler. Bedivere recounts the tale, and the chapter concludes with the account of Arthur being led away in a ship by three queens and Nimue, the Lady of the Lake.
Chapter 259
Of the opinion of some men of the death of King Arthur; and how Queen Guenever made her a nun in Almesbury
The chapter recounts the differing beliefs about King Arthur's death, with some saying he was taken to another place and will return to win the holy cross, while others maintain he changed his life in this world. It describes the inscription on his tomb: 'Hic jacet Arthurus, Rex quondam, Rexque futurus.' Sir Bedivere remains with a hermit at Glastonbury, living in prayer and abstinence. Upon learning of Arthur's death and the loss of the knights, Queen Guenever secretly goes to Almesbury with five ladies, becomes a nun, and devotes herself to penance, fasting, and alms-deeds, eventually becoming abbess.
Chapter 260
How Sir Lancelot Heard of the Death of King Arthur and of Sir Gawaine
Sir Launcelot, upon hearing of King Arthur's death and Sir Mordred's usurpation, returns to England with a great host. He mourns Sir Gawaine at his tomb in Dover, distributes alms, and then sets out to seek Queen Guenever, who has fled westward.
Chapter 261
How Sir Launcelot Departed to Seek the Queen Guenever
Sir Launcelot, against the advice of Sir Bors, sets out alone to find Queen Guenever. After searching for seven or eight days, he discovers her at a nunnery in Almesbury. The queen, overwhelmed with grief and guilt, blames their love for the war and the death of King Arthur and many noble knights. She commands Launcelot to forsake her company, return to his realm, and take a wife, while she devotes herself to a religious life. Launcelot refuses to marry, pledging instead to join her in religious devotion and prayer.
Chapter 262
How Sir Launcelot came to the hermitage where the Archbishop of Canterbury was, and how he took the habit on him
After the final parting with Queen Guenever, Sir Launcelot rides in sorrow to a hermitage where the Bishop of Canterbury (formerly the Archbishop) is. He takes the religious habit, confesses, and becomes a brother. Over time, Sir Bors and six other knights join him in penance. After six years, Launcelot becomes a priest. A vision thrice commands him to go to Almesbury, where he will find Queen Guenever dead, and to bury her beside King Arthur.
Chapter 263
XI
Sir Launcelot and his eight fellows travel from Glastonbury to Almesbury, where they find Queen Guenever has just died. Launcelot performs the funeral service himself, and they bring her body back to Glastonbury for burial beside King Arthur. Launcelot is overcome with grief and remorse, blaming his own pride and default for the deaths of Arthur and Guenever.
Chapter 264
How Sir Launcelot Began to Sicken, and After Died, Whose Body Was Borne to Joyous Gard for to Be Buried
Sir Launcelot, grief-stricken by the deaths of King Arthur and Queen Guenever, refuses food and drink, wasting away until he dies. He receives last rites, requests his body be taken to Joyous Gard, and dies peacefully. The Bishop has a vision of angels carrying Launcelot to heaven. His body is brought to Joyous Gard, where Sir Ector de Maris arrives after seven years of searching.
Chapter 265
How Sir Ector found Sir Launcelot his brother dead, and how Constantine reigned next after Arthur; and of the end of this book.
Sir Ector discovers the body of his brother Sir Launcelot at Joyous Gard and delivers a poignant eulogy. Launcelot is buried with great devotion. Sir Constantine is chosen king of England and restores the Bishop of Canterbury. Several knights, including Sir Bors, Sir Ector, Sir Blamore, and Sir Bleoberis, depart for the Holy Land, where they die fighting the miscreants. The book concludes with Malory's prayer and a note on the completion of Le Morte Darthur.
Chapter 266
XIV
The Pope sends bulls to King Arthur to make peace, and Sir Launcelot agrees to return Queen Guenever to the king. Despite Sir Gawaine's opposition, Launcelot brings the queen to Carlisle with great ceremony, leading her before Arthur and Gawaine, where many weep.
Chapter 267
Of the deliverance of the queen to the king by Sir Launcelot, and what language Sir Gawaine had to Sir Launcelot.
Sir Launcelot returns Queen Guenever to King Arthur, asserting her innocence and challenging any knight who claims otherwise. He recounts his past services to Arthur and Gawaine, including rescuing Gawaine from Sir Carados and Gaheris from Sir Turquin, and laments the lies that caused the rift between them.
Chapter 268
XVI
Sir Gawaine confronts Sir Launcelot, refusing reconciliation for the deaths of his brothers Sir Gareth and Sir Gaheris. Launcelot offers to build religious houses in their memory, but Gawaine insists on eternal enmity, though the Pope's command forces a temporary truce.
Chapter 269
XVII
Sir Launcelot, banished from the court, departs from King Arthur and Queen Guenever, taking his leave amid great sorrow from the knights and ladies. He vows to defend the queen's honor and prepares to leave the realm, with many knights pledging to follow him into exile.
Chapter 270
How Sir Launcelot Passed Over the Sea
Sir Launcelot, anticipating trouble from Sir Mordred, departs with a hundred knights from Cardiff to Benwick. He establishes his rule over France, crowns his kinsmen as kings and dukes, and rewards his loyal knights with lands and titles.
Chapter 271
How King Arthur and Sir Gawaine made a great host ready to go over sea to make war on Sir Launcelot
King Arthur and Sir Gawaine assemble a massive army of sixty thousand men and sail from Cardiff to invade Sir Launcelot's lands. Arthur appoints Sir Mordred as chief ruler of England and places Queen Guenever under his governance. Upon landing, they burn and waste Launcelot's territories. Sir Launcelot's knights urge him to fight back, but he hesitates to shed Christian blood and instead sends a damosel to King Arthur with a peace offer. King Arthur is moved to tears and inclined to accept, but Sir Gawaine insists they continue the war, and Arthur defers to his nephew's counsel.
Chapter 272
The Siege of Benwick: Sir Gawaine's Challenge
Sir Gawaine sends a damosel to Sir Launcelot with a message that peace is too late and he will never cease until one of them is slain. King Arthur lays siege to Benwick, and Sir Gawaine daily challenges the knights, smiting down Sir Bors and Sir Lionel. After enduring half a year, Sir Launcelot, moved by Gawaine's accusations of treason and the urging of his kin, finally arms himself to defend his honor against the king who knighted him.
Chapter 273
How Sir Launcelot and Sir Gawaine did battle together, and how Sir Gawaine was overthrown and hurt
Sir Launcelot and Sir Gawaine engage in a fierce duel. Gawaine's strength magically increases until noon, but Launcelot endures his attacks. After noon, Gawaine's power wanes, and Launcelot overthrows him, refusing to kill a fallen knight. Launcelot then departs into the city, leaving Gawaine to be healed.
Chapter 274
XXII
King Arthur laments the war with Sir Launcelot, especially after Sir Gawaine is wounded. Sir Gawaine recovers and challenges Launcelot again, but Launcelot defeats him once more, though he refuses to strike a fallen man. News from England then forces Arthur to lift the siege.
Chapter 275
How Sir Launcelot behaved him at the jousts, and other men also
At a great tournament, King Arthur and his knights engage in fierce jousting. Sir Launcelot, accompanied by Sir Lavaine, enters the field and performs extraordinary feats, smiting down many knights of the Round Table. Sir Gareth, disguised with a green shield, joins Launcelot to aid him against King Arthur and nine knights, including Sir Gawaine and Sir Palomides. The three allies fight together, with Sir Gareth unhorsing over thirty knights, while the knights of Launcelot's blood hold the opposing kings at bay.
Chapter 276
How King Arthur marvelled much of the jousting in the field, and how he rode and found Sir Launcelot
King Arthur and his knights marvel at the prowess of a mysterious knight with a red sleeve of gold, whom Sir Gawaine identifies as Sir Launcelot, accompanied by Sir Lavaine and Sir Gareth. After the tournament, Arthur discovers Launcelot's identity and learns of his wound from a huntress. Arthur praises Gareth for aiding Launcelot, and the chapter concludes with feasts and celebrations.
Chapter 277
How True Love is Likened to Summer
The narrator reflects on the nature of true love, comparing it to the flourishing of May and contrasting the steadfast love of old with the fickle passions of the present day. Queen Guenever is cited as an example of a true lover who had a good end.
Chapter 278
How King Arthur, the Queen, and Launcelot received letters out of Cornwall, and of the answer again.
A knight named Fergus brings good tidings and letters from Sir Tristram to King Arthur, Queen Guenever, and Sir Launcelot. They send letters back, with Launcelot warning Tristram to beware of King Mark, whom he calls 'King Fox.' The damosel also brings letters to La Beale Isoud, who expresses her mutual suffering with Tristram. King Mark, suspecting treason, sends secret letters to Arthur, Guenever, and Launcelot, telling Arthur to mind his own affairs.
Chapter 279
How Sir Launcelot was wroth with the letter that he received from King Mark, and of Dinadan which made a lay of King Mark.
King Arthur and Queen Guenever receive letters from King Mark accusing Sir Tristram and slandering Guenever and Sir Launcelot. Arthur initially muses on Morgan le Fay's past words but dismisses them, knowing his sister's enmity. Guenever sends her letter to Launcelot, who becomes furious and takes to his bed. Sir Dinadan, a trusted knight, steals the letter, reads it, and counsels Launcelot to ignore the threats. Dinadan then composes a mocking lay about King Mark and has it taught to harpers to sing throughout Wales and Cornwall.
Chapter 280
How Sir Tristram was hurt, and of a war made to King Mark; and of Sir Tristram how he promised to rescue him.
Sir Tristram, recovering from wounds sustained in jousts and tournaments, is summoned by King Mark to defend Cornwall against an invading host from Sessoin led by Elias. Despite his hatred for Tristram, Mark is compelled to seek his aid. Tristram, unable to fight immediately due to his injuries, promises to help once healed. King Mark engages the enemy but is forced to retreat to Tintagil Castle. Tristram, now healed, gathers ten knights of Arthur's and secretly enters the castle, slaying several enemy knights and bringing hope to the defenders.
Chapter 281
How Sir Tristram overcame the battle, and how Elias desired a man to fight body for body.
Elias the captain challenges King Mark to battle, and Sir Tristram takes command of the Cornish forces. Tristram burns the enemy ships, then leads a fierce battle where he performs great deeds of arms. After heavy losses on both sides, Elias proposes a single combat to decide the truage of Cornwall. King Mark and his barons agree to find a champion.
Chapter 282
How Sir Elias and Sir Tristram fought together for the truage, and how Sir Tristram slew Elias in the field
King Mark of Cornwall is dismayed when no knight dares to fight the champion Elias, who demands truage. Sir Tristram, though weary and wounded from the previous day's battle, volunteers to fight. After a fierce combat, Tristram is initially overwhelmed but rallies upon remembering his lady La Beale Isoud. He defeats and slays Elias, saving Cornwall from the truage. Despite this, King Mark harbors treacherous intentions toward Tristram, but Tristram remains oblivious, drawn by his love for Isoud.
Chapter 283
How at a great feast that King Mark made an harper came and sang the lay that Dinadan had made
At a feast celebrating the expulsion of the Sessoins from Cornwall, King Mark hosts a great celebration. Eliot the harper arrives, secretly bearing a lay composed by Sir Dinadan that exposes King Mark's treason. Sir Tristram encourages Eliot to sing it before the king, promising his protection. When the harper performs the song, King Mark becomes furious but spares Eliot because he is a minstrel. The harper then reports to Tristram, who sends letters to Launcelot and Dinadan and arranges the harper's safe departure. King Mark, suspecting Tristram's involvement, plots to kill him and his supporters.
Chapter 284
How King Mark slew by treason his brother Boudwin, for good service that he had done to him
King Mark, envious of his brother Prince Boudwin's popularity and his love for Sir Tristram, treacherously murders Boudwin after he heroically defeats the Saracens. The prince's wife, Anglides, escapes with their young son Alisander le Orphelin to save him from the king's murderous intent.
Chapter 285
How Anglides Escapes with Alisander le Orphelin
After King Mark murders Prince Boudwin, he seeks to kill Anglides and her young son Alisander. Sir Sadok, sent to retrieve them, instead allows Anglides to flee with her son on the promise that Alisander will one day avenge his father's death. Anglides escapes to the Castle of Magouns (Arundel), where she is welcomed and raises Alisander until he becomes strong and skilled.
Chapter 286
How Anglides Gave the Bloody Doublet to Alisander
Anglides, mother of Alisander, arranges for her son to be knighted on Our Lady Day in Lent. On the day of his knighting, she presents him with his father's bloody doublet and shirt, revealing that King Mark murdered his father before her eyes, and charges him with the duty of vengeance.
Chapter 287
How it was told to King Mark of Sir Alisander, and how he would have slain Sir Sadok for saving his life
Alisander le Orphelin is made a knight and charged by his mother to avenge his father's death at the hands of King Mark. After proving his prowess in jousts, news reaches King Mark, who attempts to kill Sir Sadok for saving Alisander. Sir Sadok defends himself and flees. Sir Tristram sends Alisander a letter urging him to join King Arthur's court under Sir Launcelot. King Mark, enraged, conspires with Queen Morgan le Fay and the Queen of Northgalis to use enchantresses and dangerous knights to destroy Alisander.
Chapter 288
How Sir Alisander won the prize at a tournament, and of Morgan le Fay: and how he fought with Sir Malgrin, and slew him.
Sir Alisander le Orphelin, carrying his father's bloody shirt as a token, rides toward London but goes astray by the seaside. He wins a tournament made by King Carados, smiting down the king and twenty knights, including Sir Safere. Morgan le Fay, observing, desires to meet him. Later, at a damosel's request, Alisander battles the evil knight Malgrin, who confesses to having slain twenty knights. After a fierce three-hour fight, Alisander beheads Malgrin but suffers sixteen grievous wounds, one mortal.
Chapter 289
How Queen Morgan le Fay had Alisander in her castle, and how she healed his wounds
Queen Morgan le Fay takes Alisander le Orphelin into her castle, first poisoning him with ointment before healing him. She manipulates him into refusing marriage to the damosel who won him, then gives him a sleeping draught and transports him to her castle La Beale Regard. There she extracts a promise from him to remain within the castle for a year and a day in exchange for his health. Alisander later regrets his oath as it prevents him from seeking vengeance on King Mark. A damosel, cousin to the Earl of Pase and Morgan le Fay, arrives and finds Alisander sorrowful.
Chapter 290
How Alisander was delivered from Queen Morgan le Fay by the means of a damosel
Alisander, held prisoner by Queen Morgan le Fay, is aided by a damosel who arranges for her uncle, the Earl of Pase, to destroy the castle. Alisander escapes through a postern and declares he will keep the ground for a year and a day. A duke's daughter, Alice la Beale Pilgrim, arrives and offers herself and her lands to any knight who can defeat him. Sir Sagramore le Desirous jousts with Alisander and is unhorsed; Alice is impressed and declares her love for Alisander.
Chapter 291
How Alisander met with Alice la Beale Pilgrim, and how he jousted with two knights; and after of him and of Sir Mordred.
Sir Alisander le Orphelin meets and falls in love with Alice la Beale Pilgrim. He defeats several knights in jousts, making them swear to wear no armor for a year. The false knight Sir Mordred attempts to shame Alisander by leading his horse away while he is distracted by love, but a damosel who helped Alisander earlier strikes him to wake him. Mordred escapes. Alisander continues to joust daily for a year, never being defeated, then departs with Alice and the damosel to live in Benoye.
Chapter 292
How Sir Galahalt Did Cry a Jousts in Surluse
The chapter recounts the fate of Alisander le Orphelin, who was slain by King Mark by treason, and his son Bellengerus later avenges him. It then shifts to Sir Galahalt, the haut prince, who requests King Arthur's leave to hold a grand joust in Surluse. Queen Guenever is granted permission to attend with Sir Launcelot and chosen knights, and the joust is proclaimed throughout the land, drawing many noble participants.
Chapter 293
XLI
In a grand tournament, Sir Launcelot fights disguised at the request of Queen Guenever and King Bagdemagus, unhorsing his own brother Sir Ector de Maris and Sir Bleoberis, and striking down the King of Northgalis. Meanwhile, Sir Palomides, disguised with the Questing Beast device, champions a damosel in a judicial combat, beheading her adversary Sir Goneries, though the damosel is revealed to be his kin. Sir Meliagaunce plots against Launcelot, and the haut prince orchestrates the jousts.
Chapter 294
XLII
On the second day of the tournament, Sir Palomides and Sir Galahalt the haut prince engage in a fierce joust and sword fight. Galahalt accidentally strikes Palomides' horse, then offers his own horse in apology, releasing the maiden to Palomides. Sir Dinadan then jousts with Galahalt but escapes his pursuit with witty words. Galahalt later wounds Sir Meliagaunce and another knight. The knights of Northgalis nearly overpower those of Surluse until Semound the Valiant arrives with forty knights. Queen Guenever and Sir Launcelot then call for the end of the day's fighting.
Chapter 295
How Sir Archade appealed Sir Palomides of treason, and how Sir Palomides slew him.
Sir Palomides is accused of treason by Sir Archade, brother of Goneries whom Palomides previously slew. With the permission of the haut prince, they duel after dinner. Palomides defeats Archade, unhorsing him and then beheading him. Queen Guenever and Sir Launcelot witness the combat. Later, King Bagdemagus sends his son Meliagaunce away to prevent a meeting with Launcelot, whom he hates.
Chapter 296
Of the third day, and how Sir Palomides jousted with Sir Lamorak, and other things
On the third day of jousting, King Bagdemagus distinguishes himself in battle against King Marsil and his knights, including Gaheris and the Duke Chaleins of Clarance. Sir Palomides jousts with Sir Blamore de Ganis, both falling hard. Later, a mysterious knight challenges Palomides to a joust; after a fierce fight, the knight is revealed to be Sir Lamorak, whom Sir Launcelot and Queen Guenever praise. Queen Guenever asks Launcelot not to joust against any of King Arthur's blood.
Chapter 297
Of the fourth day, and of many great feats of arms
On the fourth day of the tournament, Sir Lamorak distinguishes himself with extraordinary feats of arms, defeating multiple kings and knights. Sir Palomides and his brother Safere fight valiantly, and Sir Launcelot and King Bagdemagus come to Lamorak's aid. Queen Guenever and the haut prince praise Lamorak, and the day ends with great celebration.
Chapter 298
Of the Fifth Day, and How Sir Lamorak Behaved Him
On the fifth day of jousting, Sir Palomides defeats several knights of King Arthur's blood, including Mordred, Gaheris, and Agravaine, enraging Arthur. Sir Lamorak then challenges and overthrows Palomides, earning Arthur's gratitude. Arthur reveals his grief over the murder of his sister (Lamorak's beloved) by Gawaine and his brethren, and Lamorak vows revenge but departs for further jousts. A subplot introduces a damosel, daughter of King Bandes, who is prevented from marrying by the Saracen knight Corsabrin.
Chapter 299
How Sir Palomides fought with Corsabrin for a lady, and how Palomides slew Corsabrin
Sir Palomides accepts a damosel's challenge to fight Sir Corsabrin for her love and lands. The battle is set before the haut prince Galahalt, with jousting beforehand featuring Sir Dinadan's merriment and Sir Launcelot's intervention. Palomides defeats and beheads Corsabrin, whose corpse emits a foul stench. Palomides reveals his intent to be christened after completing seven true battles, and he sups with Queen Guenever, the haut prince, and other knights.
Chapter 300
Of the sixth day, and what then was done
The sixth day of the tournament begins with Sir Gaheris defeating Sir Ossaise, followed by fierce combat involving Sir Dornard, Sir Aglovale, and Sir Lamorak. Sir Lamorak, angered by his brothers' falls, performs extraordinary feats of arms, unhorsing four knights and rallying his brethren. The day ends with a humorous interlude at dinner where Sir Dinadan teases the haut prince and Sir Launcelot, bringing joy to the queen and the court.
Chapter 301
XLIX
In the seventh battle, Sir Launcelot disguises himself as a maiden and jousts with Sir Dinadan, unhorsing him. Dinadan is stripped and dressed in a woman's garment as a jest. Launcelot wins the prize, followed by Sir Lamorak, Sir Palomides, and King Bagdemagus. Afterwards, Queen Guenever and Launcelot return to King Arthur, but Sir Lamorak refuses to accompany them, fearing Sir Gawaine and his brethren, and departs in sorrow.
Chapter 302
How by Treason Sir Tristram Was Brought to a Tournament for to Have Been Slain, and How He Was Put in Prison
King Mark, learning of a tournament arranged by Sir Galahalt the haut prince and King Bagdemagus to destroy Sir Launcelot, sends Sir Tristram disguised to the jousts, hoping the knights will mistake him for Launcelot and kill him. Tristram wins the tournament despite severe injuries. King Mark feigns concern, takes Tristram to a castle, drugs him, and imprisons him. When Tristram is missed, La Beale Isoud asks Sir Sadok to investigate. Sadok discovers the treason, ambushes King Mark and his nephews, slaying the nephews. Sadok then rallies Sir Dinas and the people of Liones to defy King Mark.
Chapter 303
LI
King Mark, having escaped Sir Sadok, raises his forces at Tintagil after discovering the deaths of his cousins and the traitor of Magouns. He then forges letters from the Pope to trick Sir Tristram into leaving prison to fight Saracens, but Tristram sees through the deception. Meanwhile, four wounded knights arrive warning Mark that the country has risen against him. Sir Percivale de Galis arrives, frees Tristram by knightly means, and rebukes King Mark for his treachery and for imprisoning Tristram out of jealousy over La Beale Isoud. Percivale departs for Wales, leaving Tristram free.
Chapter 304
How Sir Tristram and La Beale Isoud came unto England, and how Sir Launcelot brought them to Joyous Gard
Sir Tristram and La Beale Isoud arrive in England and attend a tournament where Tristram, in disguise, overthrows fourteen Round Table knights. Sir Launcelot recognizes him via a ring sent by Isoud and brings them to his castle Joyous Gard. King Arthur, learning of their escape from King Mark, proclaims a grand tournament at Lonazep. The chapter also extols Tristram's mastery of hunting and horn-blowing.
Chapter 305
LIII
Sir Tristram, advised by La Beale Isoud to ride armed, encounters Breuse Saunce Pité and Sir Palomides at a well. They learn that King Mark is imprisoned by his own knights for his treachery against Tristram. Sir Bleoberis de Ganis arrives and challenges Breuse, who flees. Bleoberis pursues him into a group of Round Table knights—Sir Ector de Maris, Sir Percivale de Galis, and Sir Harry le Fise Lake—who initially aid Breuse but later learn his true villainous nature.
Chapter 306
Of Sir Palomides, and how he met with Sir Bleoberis and with Sir Ector, and of Sir Pervivale
Sir Palomides encounters Sir Bleoberis and Sir Ector, challenging Bleoberis for a past defeat. During the confrontation, Palomides recounts his rivalry with Sir Launcelot and Sir Tristram, and mourns the death of Sir Lamorak de Galis, slain by Sir Gawaine and his brethren. Sir Percivale, upon hearing of his brother Lamorak's death, swoons with grief. A varlet then arrives announcing a great tournament at Lonazep.
Chapter 307
How Sir Tristram met with Sir Dinadan, and of their devices, and what he said to Sir Gawaine's brethren
Sir Tristram encounters Sir Dinadan while hunting, but refuses to reveal his name, leading to tension. Dinadan mocks lovers, but Tristram defends them. They witness a knight named Epinegris, a lover, joust and defeat Dinadan. Tristram later learns that two knights, Sir Agravaine and Sir Gaheris, have slain a knight for claiming Sir Launcelot was better than Sir Gawaine. Tristram confronts them, reproaches them for their reputation as destroyers of good knights, and lets them pass for King Arthur's sake.
Chapter 308
How Sir Tristram smote down Sir Agravaine and Sir Gaheris, and how Sir Dinadan was sent for by La Beale Isoud
Sir Tristram defeats Sir Agravaine and Sir Gaheris in combat, then rides to Joyous Gard where he reunites with La Beale Isoud. He tells her of Sir Dinadan, a merry knight who mocks lovers. La Beale Isoud sends for Dinadan, who arrives and jests with her, refusing to fight for her love. Tristram then departs to meet Dinadan and ride together to a tournament at Lonazep.
Chapter 309
LVII
Sir Dinadan meets Sir Tristram and, believing him a coward, challenges him. Tristram avoids fighting, but later reveals his true strength by unhorsing Sir Palomides. Palomides, who had sworn hatred of Tristram, repents and offers his service. Dinadan confesses he sought Tristram on the advice of Sir Launcelot.
Chapter 310
How they approached the Castle Lonazep, and of other devices of the death of Sir Lamorak
Sir Tristram, Sir Palomides, Sir Dinadan, and Sir Gareth approach the Castle Lonazep, observing a great tournament gathering. They discuss the death of Sir Lamorak, slain treacherously by Sir Gawaine and his brethren, and Sir Tristram expresses his grief and anger. Sir Gareth disavows his brothers' actions, and the group reflects on the enmity between Gawaine's kin and the good knights of the Round Table.
Chapter 311
LIX
Sir Tristram and his companions, including Sir Palomides, encounter a ship on the Humber bank containing the body of King Hermance of the Red City, who was treacherously slain by two brethren he raised. A letter in the dead king's hand calls for a knight to avenge his death and inherit his city. Tristram, bound by a prior promise to attend a tournament, entrusts the quest to Palomides, who agrees on condition he can return in time for the tournament.
Chapter 312
LX
Sir Tristram, Gareth, and Sir Dinadan encounter a knight who recognizes Tristram as his brother's killer, leading to a fight. Later, they meet the King with the Hundred Knights and Sir Segwarides, resulting in jousts over a helm. Tristram defeats the king, and they proceed to Joyous Gard, where Dinadan is mocked by La Beale Isoud.
Chapter 313
LXI
Sir Palomides arrives at a castle near the Humber and learns of the tragic death of King Hermance, who was betrayed by two treacherous knights he had raised from childhood. The tale serves as a warning to all estates about the dangers of trusting villains over noble blood.
Chapter 314
LXII
King Hermance of the Red City is slain by two of his own knights through treason. His letter requesting vengeance is delivered to Sir Palomides, who undertakes the quest. Upon nearing the city, Palomides encounters another knight who also claims the quest; they fight, and Palomides prevails, establishing his right to avenge the king.
Chapter 315
Of the preparation of Sir Palomides and the two brethren that should fight with him
Sir Palomides arrives at the Delectable Isle to avenge the death of King Hermance, slain by the two brethren Helius and Helake. He recounts to Sir Hermind the treasonous slaying of Sir Lamorak by Sir Gawaine and his brethren. The city rejoices at Palomides' coming, and he prepares to fight the two false knights in single combat.
Chapter 316
Of the battle between Sir Palomides and the two brethren, and how the two brethren were slain
Sir Palomides fights and slays the two brethren, Helake and Helius, in a fierce battle. After his victory, the people of the city offer him lordship, but he declines, needing to rejoin King Arthur at the Castle of Lonazep. He travels to Joyous Gard, where he meets Sir Tristram, La Beale Isoud, Sir Dinadan, and Sir Gareth.
Chapter 317
LXV
Sir Tristram and his company, including La Beale Isoud and Sir Palomides, journey toward Lonazep. Along the way, they encounter Galihodin and his knights, who challenge them for the lady. Sir Palomides offers to take on the challenge. Later, they meet the treacherous knight Breuse Saunce Pité, who attacks them but is unhorsed by Palomides and allowed to escape. They also meet Epinogris, who is pursuing Breuse. The party then proceeds to Joyous Gard, where Palomides is deeply smitten by La Beale Isoud. The next day, they continue their journey, richly apparelled, and again encounter Galihodin's company.
Chapter 318
LXVI
Sir Palomides jousts with and defeats Sir Galihodin and his men, then overthrows Sir Gawaine, Sir Uwaine, Sir Sagramore, and Sir Dodinas. Sir Tristram, Sir Palomides, and La Beale Isoud continue their journey. Sir Tristram and Sir Dinadan ride to Lonazep to gather news, where they hear a horn summoning knights opposing King Arthur at the tournament. Sir Tristram overhears the King of Ireland's counsel and then rides to hear King Arthur's counsel.
Chapter 319
LXVII
Sir Tristram and his fellowship arrive at the tournament of Lonazep. Sir Tristram, disguised in green armor, refuses to reveal his name to King Arthur. The next day, Sir Gareth jousts with Selises, and both are knocked down. La Beale Isoud tends to Gareth's injuries, and Sir Palomides offers counsel.
Chapter 320
LXVIII
Sir Tristram, Sir Palomides, Sir Gareth, and Sir Dinadan, all arrayed in green, enter a tournament on the side of the King of Scots against King Arthur's party. La Beale Isoud watches from a window. Sir Tristram and Sir Palomides perform extraordinary feats of arms, unhorsing many knights of Orkney, including kin of Sir Gawaine. King Arthur marvels at their prowess, comparing Tristram to a wood lion and Palomides to a wood leopard. The knights of Orkney eventually withdraw to Lonazep.
Chapter 321
How Sir Tristram was unhorsed and smitten down by Sir Launcelot, and after that Sir Tristram smote down King Arthur
In a tournament, Sir Tristram (the Green Knight) and his companions Sir Palomides, Sir Gareth, and Sir Dinadan battle knights of King Arthur's household. King Arthur, shamed by their success, leads Sir Launcelot, Sir Bleoberis, and Sir Ector against them. Sir Launcelot unhorses Sir Tristram, Sir Bleoberis unhorses Sir Palomides, and Sir Ector unhorses Sir Gareth, while King Arthur unhorses Sir Dinadan. The King of Northgalis lends his horse to Sir Tristram, who then strikes King Arthur from his saddle and gives the king's horse to his benefactor. Sir Tristram then retreats to his pavilions and disguises himself in red.
Chapter 322
How Sir Tristram changed his harness and it was all red, and how he demeaned him, and how Sir Palomides slew Launcelot’s horse
In a tournament, Sir Tristram dons red armor and, unrecognized, aids Sir Palomides, Sir Gareth, and Sir Dinadan. Sir Palomides, inspired by Queen La Beale Isoud's laughter, performs extraordinary feats, earning the day's prize. Sir Launcelot returns and challenges Palomides, but Palomides cuts Launcelot's horse's neck, causing Launcelot to fall, which many knights deem unknightly.
Chapter 323
How Sir Launcelot said to Sir Palomides, and how the prize of that day was given unto Sir Palomides
In a grand tournament, Sir Palomides performs exceptionally well, earning the admiration of King Arthur and the other knights. Sir Launcelot, initially angered by Palomides' actions, ultimately spares him and allows him to keep the day's honor. Sir Tristram, disguised in red armor, also fights valiantly. The chapter concludes with the prize being awarded to Sir Palomides, while Sir Launcelot hints that a better knight than Palomides is present.
Chapter 324
How Sir Dinadan Provoked Sir Tristram to Do Well
Sir Dinadan taunts Sir Tristram for appearing sluggish and calls him a coward to provoke him into action, knowing that a wroth Tristram would prevent Sir Palomides from winning the prize. Sir Tristram defends his honor, acknowledging Sir Launcelot's peerless knighthood, and Sir Palomides also praises Launcelot's courtesy. The chapter concludes with all kings and knights affirming that Sir Launcelot and Sir Tristram are the greatest knights of Arthur's days.
Chapter 325
How King Arthur and Sir Lancelot came to see La Beale Isoud, and how Palomides smote down King Arthur
King Arthur and Sir Launcelot, disguised as poor errant knights, ride into the forest to see Queen Isoud. Sir Palomides, angered by Arthur's lingering gaze, smites him down with a spear. Launcelot then jousts with Palomides and unhorses him in revenge. Sir Tristram recognizes both Arthur and Launcelot and rebukes Palomides for his unknightly conduct, noting that Arthur and Launcelot came only out of gentleness to behold a fair lady.
Chapter 326
How the second day Palomides forsook Sir Tristram, and went to the contrary part against him
On the second day of jousting, Sir Palomides feigns weariness to deceive Sir Tristram, then secretly joins the opposing side to win glory. Sir Tristram, urged by Sir Gareth, unleashes his full strength and outshines Palomides, drawing the admiration of King Arthur and Sir Launcelot.
Chapter 327
LXXV
Sir Tristram withdraws from the field, awakens Sir Dinadan, and changes into black armor. King Arthur, the King of Northgalis, Sir Launcelot du Lake, and his kinsmen Sir Bleoberis, Sir Bors de Ganis, and Sir Ector de Maris enter the field. Launcelot and his kin perform great deeds, beating back the Kings of Wales and Scots, while Tristram and Sir Gareth endure many strokes. Arthur and Launcelot discuss Sir Palomides' envy of Tristram. Tristram, observed by La Beale Isoud and Palomides, returns to the field in black with Dinadan.
Chapter 328
How Sir Palomides changed his shield and his armour for to hurt Sir Tristram, and how Sir Launcelot did to Sir Tristram.
Sir Palomides disguises himself by swapping armor with a wounded knight to attack Sir Tristram unnoticed. Sir Launcelot enters the fray and unknowingly fights Sir Tristram, leading to a tense battle. Sir Gareth and Sir Dinadan intervene to protect Tristram, and Launcelot eventually learns Tristram's identity, apologizes, and publicly declares Tristram the best knight of the day.
Chapter 329
How Sir Tristram departed with La Beale Isoud, and how Palomides followed and excused him
After the tournament, Sir Tristram, Gareth, and Dinadan ride with La Beale Isoud to their pavilions, accompanied by a disguised Sir Palomides. Tristram recognizes Palomides and confronts him about his treachery during the tournament, but ultimately forgives him. La Beale Isoud, however, is furious, having witnessed Palomides's betrayal firsthand, and struggles to accept his presence.
Chapter 330
How King Arthur and Sir Launcelot came unto their pavilions as they sat at supper, and of Sir Palomides.
King Arthur and Sir Launcelot visit Sir Tristram and La Beale Isoud at their pavilion during supper, revealing themselves as friends. They share joyful conversation, discuss the recent jousts, and Sir Tristram explains why he fought against Arthur's party. Sir Palomides is rebuked for attacking Tristram unknowingly, and later suffers envy and sorrow over the incident.
Chapter 331
How Sir Tristram and Sir Palomides did the next day, and how King Arthur was unhorsed
In a grand tournament, Sir Tristram and Sir Palomides compete fiercely, with Tristram outshining Palomides. King Arthur and Sir Launcelot join the fray, but Tristram unknowingly unhorses Arthur. Launcelot fights valiantly, rescuing Arthur and performing great deeds, while Tristram watches in admiration.
Chapter 332
How Sir Tristram turned to King Arthur’s side, and how Palomides would not.
Sir Tristram, Sir Gareth, and Sir Dinadan decide to join King Arthur's side in the ongoing conflict, while Sir Palomides refuses and departs in sorrow. Tristram and Launcelot perform valiantly in battle, and the prize is shared between them. Palomides, wailing and weeping, is later consoled by the kings of Wales and Scotland, but he remains bitter toward Tristram, whom he accuses of treachery. Tristram and his companions escort La Beale Isoud to Joyous Gard, while Arthur returns to Camelot.
Chapter 333
How Sir Bleoberis and Sir Ector Reported to Queen Guenever of the Beauty of La Beale Isoud
Sir Bleoberis and Sir Ector return to Queen Guenever, who has recovered from her illness, and report on the tournament they attended with Sir Tristram and La Beale Isoud. They praise Isoud's beauty and goodness, and recount the tournament's three days: Palomides won the first, Tristram the second, and Launcelot the third. Queen Guenever reflects on the nature of envy and worship.
Chapter 334
How Epinogris complained by a well, and how Sir Palomides came and found him, and of their both sorrowing.
Sir Palomides, having parted from the two kings who gave him gifts, rides into a forest where he finds the wounded knight Epinogris lamenting by a well. Palomides shares his own greater sorrow over his unrequited love for La Beale Isoud and his lost fellowship with Sir Tristram, and the two knights commiserate together.
Chapter 335
How Sir Palomides brought Sir Epinogris his lady; and how Sir Palomides and Sir Safere were assailed.
Sir Palomides encounters Sir Epinogris, who laments the loss of his lady to Sir Helior le Preuse. Palomides promises to help recover her. He witnesses a battle between Sir Helior and a knight bearing Sir Ector's shield, who defeats Helior and takes the lady. Palomides intervenes, claiming the lady for Epinogris, and fights the unknown knight. After a long battle, they reveal their identities: the knight is Safere, Palomides' brother. They reconcile, and Epinogris is reunited with his lady.
Chapter 336
How Sir Palomides and Sir Safere conducted Sir Epinogris to his castle, and of other adventures
Sir Palomides and his brother Sir Safere help reunite Sir Epinogris with his lady, then encounter a manor where Palomides is recognized as the knight who slew their lord at the tournament of Lonazep. After a fierce fight, Palomides is captured, judged guilty, and sentenced to death. As he is led bound to Pelownes castle, a knight from Joyous Gard sees him and Palomides asks to be commended to Sir Tristram, Queen Isoud, King Arthur, and the Round Table.
Chapter 337
LXXXV
Sir Tristram, despite his anger with Sir Palomides, sets out to rescue him from being led to death by twelve knights. However, Sir Launcelot, resting by a well, sees the bound Palomides and intervenes first, defeating all twelve knights and freeing Palomides. When Tristram arrives, Palomides prevents a joust between them by revealing Launcelot's deed.
Chapter 338
How Sir Tristram and Launcelot, with Palomides, came to joyous Gard; and of Palomides and Sir Tristram
Sir Tristram and Sir Palomides encounter Sir Launcelot, who initially conceals his identity but later reveals himself at Joyous Gard. Launcelot departs after a few days, leaving Palomides and Dinadan with Tristram. Palomides, consumed by his unrequited love for La Beale Isoud, grows despondent and composes a lament by a well. Tristram overhears the song, confronts Palomides about his treasonous love, and Palomides defends his love as free and without reward.
Chapter 339
How There Was a Day Set Between Sir Tristram and Sir Palomides for to Fight, and How Sir Tristram Was Hurt
Sir Tristram and Sir Palomides agree to a duel in fifteen days over their love for La Beale Isoud. Palomides requests the delay to regain his strength after long sickness. Tristram recalls a previous broken promise by Palomides. While hunting three days before the battle, Tristram is accidentally shot in the thigh by an archer, causing him great distress as he fears he will be unable to fight.
Chapter 340
How Sir Palomides kept his day to have foughten, but Sir Tristram might not come; and other things.
Sir Palomides arrives at the appointed well with knights and sergeants to fight Sir Tristram, but Tristram is bedridden with a deep thigh wound. He sends a squire to explain his condition and promises to seek Palomides when healed. Palomides departs, relieved. Tristram recovers within a month and rides across the land achieving adventures and seeking Palomides, but cannot find him. His fame grows, causing envy among Sir Launcelot's kinsmen, but Launcelot defends Tristram. News reaches Cornwall and Liones, bringing joy and gifts. Tristram returns to Joyous Gard to La Beale Isoud.
Chapter 341
Book XI
This book recounts the adventures of Sir Launcelot, including his enchantment by Dame Elaine and the birth of Sir Galahad, as well as various knightly exploits and the quest for the Holy Grail.
Chapter 342
How Sir Mordred presumed and took on him to be King of England, and would have married the queen, his father’s wife.
Sir Mordred, having spread false news of King Arthur's death, seizes the throne and attempts to marry Queen Guenever. She feigns agreement but escapes to the Tower of London, which she fortifies against Mordred's siege. The Bishop of Canterbury curses Mordred and flees. Mordred gathers a large army, and many Englishmen side with him, disloyal to Arthur. Word arrives that Arthur is returning from France, and Mordred prepares to meet him at Dover.
Chapter 343
How after that King Arthur had tidings, he returned and came to Dover, where Sir Mordred met him to let his landing; and of the death of Sir Gawaine.
King Arthur returns to England with a great navy to confront Sir Mordred, who has usurped the throne and attempted to marry Queen Guenever. After a fierce battle at Dover, Arthur's forces land and put Mordred to flight. The mortally wounded Sir Gawaine is found, and he writes a letter to Sir Launcelot, taking responsibility for his own death and urging Launcelot to return and rescue King Arthur from the traitor Mordred. Gawaine dies at noon, and Arthur buries him in a chapel at Dover Castle.
Chapter 344
III
King Arthur dreams of Sir Gawaine, who warns him not to fight Sir Mordred the next day, as he would be slain; Arthur sends Sir Lucan and Sir Bedivere to negotiate a month-long truce with Mordred, who agrees to take Cornwall and Kent during Arthur's reign and all England after.
Chapter 345
How by misadventure of an adder the battle began, where Mordred was slain, and Arthur hurt to the death.
King Arthur and Sir Mordred meet for a parley, but an adder stings a knight, causing him to draw his sword and triggering a full-scale battle. Both armies fight fiercely, resulting in massive casualties. Arthur and Mordred mortally wound each other; Mordred dies, and Arthur is gravely injured. Only Sir Lucan and Sir Bedivere survive among Arthur's knights. After the battle, robbers plunder the dead, and the survivors attempt to move Arthur to safety.
Chapter 346
How King Arthur commanded to cast his sword Excalibur into the water, and how he was delivered to ladies in a barge
King Arthur, mortally wounded, commands Sir Bedivere to throw Excalibur into the lake. After twice hiding the sword, Bedivere finally obeys, and a hand rises from the water to catch it. Arthur is then carried to a barge of mourning queens and departs for the vale of Avilion, leaving Bedivere alone.
Chapter 347
How Sir Bedivere Found Him on the Morrow Dead in an Hermitage
Sir Bedivere discovers King Arthur's tomb in a chapel and learns from the hermit (formerly the Bishop of Canterbury) that ladies brought the body at midnight. Bedivere resolves to stay and live a life of fasting and prayer, and the hermit welcomes him, revealing he knows Bedivere as the brother of Sir Lucan the Butler. Bedivere recounts the tale, and the chapter concludes with the account of Arthur being led away in a ship by three queens and Nimue, the Lady of the Lake.
Chapter 348
Of the opinion of some men of the death of King Arthur; and how Queen Guenever made her a nun in Almesbury
The chapter recounts the differing beliefs about King Arthur's death, with some saying he was taken to another place and will return to win the holy cross, while others maintain he changed his life in this world. It describes the inscription on his tomb: 'Hic jacet Arthurus, Rex quondam, Rexque futurus.' Sir Bedivere remains with a hermit at Glastonbury, living in prayer and abstinence. Upon learning of Arthur's death and the loss of the knights, Queen Guenever secretly goes to Almesbury with five ladies, becomes a nun, and devotes herself to penance, fasting, and alms-deeds, eventually becoming abbess.
Chapter 349
How Sir Lancelot Heard of the Death of King Arthur and of Sir Gawaine
Sir Launcelot, upon hearing of King Arthur's death and Sir Mordred's usurpation, returns to England with a great host. He mourns Sir Gawaine at his tomb in Dover, distributes alms, and then sets out to seek Queen Guenever, who has fled westward.
Chapter 350
How Sir Launcelot Departed to Seek the Queen Guenever
Sir Launcelot, against the advice of Sir Bors, sets out alone to find Queen Guenever. After searching for seven or eight days, he discovers her at a nunnery in Almesbury. The queen, overwhelmed with grief and guilt, blames their love for the war and the death of King Arthur and many noble knights. She commands Launcelot to forsake her company, return to his realm, and take a wife, while she devotes herself to a religious life. Launcelot refuses to marry, pledging instead to join her in religious devotion and prayer.
Chapter 351
How Sir Launcelot came to the hermitage where the Archbishop of Canterbury was, and how he took the habit on him
After the final parting with Queen Guenever, Sir Launcelot rides in sorrow to a hermitage where the Bishop of Canterbury (formerly the Archbishop) is. He takes the religious habit, confesses, and becomes a brother. Over time, Sir Bors and six other knights join him in penance. After six years, Launcelot becomes a priest. A vision thrice commands him to go to Almesbury, where he will find Queen Guenever dead, and to bury her beside King Arthur.
Chapter 352
XI
Sir Launcelot and his eight fellows travel from Glastonbury to Almesbury, where they find Queen Guenever has just died. Launcelot performs the funeral service himself, and they bring her body back to Glastonbury for burial beside King Arthur. Launcelot is overcome with grief and remorse, blaming his own pride and default for the deaths of Arthur and Guenever.
Chapter 353
How Sir Launcelot Began to Sicken, and After Died, Whose Body Was Borne to Joyous Gard for to Be Buried
Sir Launcelot, grief-stricken by the deaths of King Arthur and Queen Guenever, refuses food and drink, wasting away until he dies. He receives last rites, requests his body be taken to Joyous Gard, and dies peacefully. The Bishop has a vision of angels carrying Launcelot to heaven. His body is brought to Joyous Gard, where Sir Ector de Maris arrives after seven years of searching.
Chapter 354
How Sir Ector found Sir Launcelot his brother dead, and how Constantine reigned next after Arthur; and of the end of this book.
Sir Ector discovers the body of his brother Sir Launcelot at Joyous Gard and delivers a poignant eulogy. Launcelot is buried with great devotion. Sir Constantine is chosen king of England and restores the Bishop of Canterbury. Several knights, including Sir Bors, Sir Ector, Sir Blamore, and Sir Bleoberis, depart for the Holy Land, where they die fighting the miscreants. The book concludes with Malory's prayer and a note on the completion of Le Morte Darthur.
Chapter 355
XIV
The Pope sends bulls to King Arthur to make peace, and Sir Launcelot agrees to return Queen Guenever to the king. Despite Sir Gawaine's opposition, Launcelot brings the queen to Carlisle with great ceremony, leading her before Arthur and Gawaine, where many weep.
Chapter 356
Book XII
Sir Launcelot, after being healed of his madness, continues his adventures and encounters various knights and ladies. He participates in tournaments and jousts, demonstrating his prowess and chivalry, while also dealing with the complexities of love and loyalty.
Chapter 357
How Sir Mordred presumed and took on him to be King of England, and would have married the queen, his father’s wife.
Sir Mordred, having spread false news of King Arthur's death, seizes the throne and attempts to marry Queen Guenever. She feigns agreement but escapes to the Tower of London, which she fortifies against Mordred's siege. The Bishop of Canterbury curses Mordred and flees. Mordred gathers a large army, and many Englishmen side with him, disloyal to Arthur. Word arrives that Arthur is returning from France, and Mordred prepares to meet him at Dover.
Chapter 358
How after that King Arthur had tidings, he returned and came to Dover, where Sir Mordred met him to let his landing; and of the death of Sir Gawaine.
King Arthur returns to England with a great navy to confront Sir Mordred, who has usurped the throne and attempted to marry Queen Guenever. After a fierce battle at Dover, Arthur's forces land and put Mordred to flight. The mortally wounded Sir Gawaine is found, and he writes a letter to Sir Launcelot, taking responsibility for his own death and urging Launcelot to return and rescue King Arthur from the traitor Mordred. Gawaine dies at noon, and Arthur buries him in a chapel at Dover Castle.
Chapter 359
III
King Arthur dreams of Sir Gawaine, who warns him not to fight Sir Mordred the next day, as he would be slain; Arthur sends Sir Lucan and Sir Bedivere to negotiate a month-long truce with Mordred, who agrees to take Cornwall and Kent during Arthur's reign and all England after.
Chapter 360
How by misadventure of an adder the battle began, where Mordred was slain, and Arthur hurt to the death.
King Arthur and Sir Mordred meet for a parley, but an adder stings a knight, causing him to draw his sword and triggering a full-scale battle. Both armies fight fiercely, resulting in massive casualties. Arthur and Mordred mortally wound each other; Mordred dies, and Arthur is gravely injured. Only Sir Lucan and Sir Bedivere survive among Arthur's knights. After the battle, robbers plunder the dead, and the survivors attempt to move Arthur to safety.
Chapter 361
How King Arthur commanded to cast his sword Excalibur into the water, and how he was delivered to ladies in a barge
King Arthur, mortally wounded, commands Sir Bedivere to throw Excalibur into the lake. After twice hiding the sword, Bedivere finally obeys, and a hand rises from the water to catch it. Arthur is then carried to a barge of mourning queens and departs for the vale of Avilion, leaving Bedivere alone.
Chapter 362
How Sir Bedivere Found Him on the Morrow Dead in an Hermitage
Sir Bedivere discovers King Arthur's tomb in a chapel and learns from the hermit (formerly the Bishop of Canterbury) that ladies brought the body at midnight. Bedivere resolves to stay and live a life of fasting and prayer, and the hermit welcomes him, revealing he knows Bedivere as the brother of Sir Lucan the Butler. Bedivere recounts the tale, and the chapter concludes with the account of Arthur being led away in a ship by three queens and Nimue, the Lady of the Lake.
Chapter 363
Of the opinion of some men of the death of King Arthur; and how Queen Guenever made her a nun in Almesbury
The chapter recounts the differing beliefs about King Arthur's death, with some saying he was taken to another place and will return to win the holy cross, while others maintain he changed his life in this world. It describes the inscription on his tomb: 'Hic jacet Arthurus, Rex quondam, Rexque futurus.' Sir Bedivere remains with a hermit at Glastonbury, living in prayer and abstinence. Upon learning of Arthur's death and the loss of the knights, Queen Guenever secretly goes to Almesbury with five ladies, becomes a nun, and devotes herself to penance, fasting, and alms-deeds, eventually becoming abbess.
Chapter 364
How Sir Lancelot Heard of the Death of King Arthur and of Sir Gawaine
Sir Launcelot, upon hearing of King Arthur's death and Sir Mordred's usurpation, returns to England with a great host. He mourns Sir Gawaine at his tomb in Dover, distributes alms, and then sets out to seek Queen Guenever, who has fled westward.
Chapter 365
How Sir Launcelot Departed to Seek the Queen Guenever
Sir Launcelot, against the advice of Sir Bors, sets out alone to find Queen Guenever. After searching for seven or eight days, he discovers her at a nunnery in Almesbury. The queen, overwhelmed with grief and guilt, blames their love for the war and the death of King Arthur and many noble knights. She commands Launcelot to forsake her company, return to his realm, and take a wife, while she devotes herself to a religious life. Launcelot refuses to marry, pledging instead to join her in religious devotion and prayer.
Chapter 366
How Sir Launcelot came to the hermitage where the Archbishop of Canterbury was, and how he took the habit on him
After the final parting with Queen Guenever, Sir Launcelot rides in sorrow to a hermitage where the Bishop of Canterbury (formerly the Archbishop) is. He takes the religious habit, confesses, and becomes a brother. Over time, Sir Bors and six other knights join him in penance. After six years, Launcelot becomes a priest. A vision thrice commands him to go to Almesbury, where he will find Queen Guenever dead, and to bury her beside King Arthur.
Chapter 367
XI
Sir Launcelot and his eight fellows travel from Glastonbury to Almesbury, where they find Queen Guenever has just died. Launcelot performs the funeral service himself, and they bring her body back to Glastonbury for burial beside King Arthur. Launcelot is overcome with grief and remorse, blaming his own pride and default for the deaths of Arthur and Guenever.
Chapter 368
How Sir Launcelot Began to Sicken, and After Died, Whose Body Was Borne to Joyous Gard for to Be Buried
Sir Launcelot, grief-stricken by the deaths of King Arthur and Queen Guenever, refuses food and drink, wasting away until he dies. He receives last rites, requests his body be taken to Joyous Gard, and dies peacefully. The Bishop has a vision of angels carrying Launcelot to heaven. His body is brought to Joyous Gard, where Sir Ector de Maris arrives after seven years of searching.
Chapter 369
How Sir Ector found Sir Launcelot his brother dead, and how Constantine reigned next after Arthur; and of the end of this book.
Sir Ector discovers the body of his brother Sir Launcelot at Joyous Gard and delivers a poignant eulogy. Launcelot is buried with great devotion. Sir Constantine is chosen king of England and restores the Bishop of Canterbury. Several knights, including Sir Bors, Sir Ector, Sir Blamore, and Sir Bleoberis, depart for the Holy Land, where they die fighting the miscreants. The book concludes with Malory's prayer and a note on the completion of Le Morte Darthur.
Chapter 370
XIV
The Pope sends bulls to King Arthur to make peace, and Sir Launcelot agrees to return Queen Guenever to the king. Despite Sir Gawaine's opposition, Launcelot brings the queen to Carlisle with great ceremony, leading her before Arthur and Gawaine, where many weep.
Chapter 371
Book XIII
The beginning of the quest for the Holy Grail, as knights of the Round Table witness miraculous signs and prepare for the greatest adventure of their lives.
Chapter 372
How Sir Mordred presumed and took on him to be King of England, and would have married the queen, his father’s wife.
Sir Mordred, having spread false news of King Arthur's death, seizes the throne and attempts to marry Queen Guenever. She feigns agreement but escapes to the Tower of London, which she fortifies against Mordred's siege. The Bishop of Canterbury curses Mordred and flees. Mordred gathers a large army, and many Englishmen side with him, disloyal to Arthur. Word arrives that Arthur is returning from France, and Mordred prepares to meet him at Dover.
Chapter 373
How after that King Arthur had tidings, he returned and came to Dover, where Sir Mordred met him to let his landing; and of the death of Sir Gawaine.
King Arthur returns to England with a great navy to confront Sir Mordred, who has usurped the throne and attempted to marry Queen Guenever. After a fierce battle at Dover, Arthur's forces land and put Mordred to flight. The mortally wounded Sir Gawaine is found, and he writes a letter to Sir Launcelot, taking responsibility for his own death and urging Launcelot to return and rescue King Arthur from the traitor Mordred. Gawaine dies at noon, and Arthur buries him in a chapel at Dover Castle.
Chapter 374
III
King Arthur dreams of Sir Gawaine, who warns him not to fight Sir Mordred the next day, as he would be slain; Arthur sends Sir Lucan and Sir Bedivere to negotiate a month-long truce with Mordred, who agrees to take Cornwall and Kent during Arthur's reign and all England after.
Chapter 375
How by misadventure of an adder the battle began, where Mordred was slain, and Arthur hurt to the death.
King Arthur and Sir Mordred meet for a parley, but an adder stings a knight, causing him to draw his sword and triggering a full-scale battle. Both armies fight fiercely, resulting in massive casualties. Arthur and Mordred mortally wound each other; Mordred dies, and Arthur is gravely injured. Only Sir Lucan and Sir Bedivere survive among Arthur's knights. After the battle, robbers plunder the dead, and the survivors attempt to move Arthur to safety.
Chapter 376
How King Arthur commanded to cast his sword Excalibur into the water, and how he was delivered to ladies in a barge
King Arthur, mortally wounded, commands Sir Bedivere to throw Excalibur into the lake. After twice hiding the sword, Bedivere finally obeys, and a hand rises from the water to catch it. Arthur is then carried to a barge of mourning queens and departs for the vale of Avilion, leaving Bedivere alone.
Chapter 377
How Sir Bedivere Found Him on the Morrow Dead in an Hermitage
Sir Bedivere discovers King Arthur's tomb in a chapel and learns from the hermit (formerly the Bishop of Canterbury) that ladies brought the body at midnight. Bedivere resolves to stay and live a life of fasting and prayer, and the hermit welcomes him, revealing he knows Bedivere as the brother of Sir Lucan the Butler. Bedivere recounts the tale, and the chapter concludes with the account of Arthur being led away in a ship by three queens and Nimue, the Lady of the Lake.
Chapter 378
Of the opinion of some men of the death of King Arthur; and how Queen Guenever made her a nun in Almesbury
The chapter recounts the differing beliefs about King Arthur's death, with some saying he was taken to another place and will return to win the holy cross, while others maintain he changed his life in this world. It describes the inscription on his tomb: 'Hic jacet Arthurus, Rex quondam, Rexque futurus.' Sir Bedivere remains with a hermit at Glastonbury, living in prayer and abstinence. Upon learning of Arthur's death and the loss of the knights, Queen Guenever secretly goes to Almesbury with five ladies, becomes a nun, and devotes herself to penance, fasting, and alms-deeds, eventually becoming abbess.
Chapter 379
How Sir Lancelot Heard of the Death of King Arthur and of Sir Gawaine
Sir Launcelot, upon hearing of King Arthur's death and Sir Mordred's usurpation, returns to England with a great host. He mourns Sir Gawaine at his tomb in Dover, distributes alms, and then sets out to seek Queen Guenever, who has fled westward.
Chapter 380
How Sir Launcelot Departed to Seek the Queen Guenever
Sir Launcelot, against the advice of Sir Bors, sets out alone to find Queen Guenever. After searching for seven or eight days, he discovers her at a nunnery in Almesbury. The queen, overwhelmed with grief and guilt, blames their love for the war and the death of King Arthur and many noble knights. She commands Launcelot to forsake her company, return to his realm, and take a wife, while she devotes herself to a religious life. Launcelot refuses to marry, pledging instead to join her in religious devotion and prayer.
Chapter 381
How Sir Launcelot came to the hermitage where the Archbishop of Canterbury was, and how he took the habit on him
After the final parting with Queen Guenever, Sir Launcelot rides in sorrow to a hermitage where the Bishop of Canterbury (formerly the Archbishop) is. He takes the religious habit, confesses, and becomes a brother. Over time, Sir Bors and six other knights join him in penance. After six years, Launcelot becomes a priest. A vision thrice commands him to go to Almesbury, where he will find Queen Guenever dead, and to bury her beside King Arthur.
Chapter 382
XI
Sir Launcelot and his eight fellows travel from Glastonbury to Almesbury, where they find Queen Guenever has just died. Launcelot performs the funeral service himself, and they bring her body back to Glastonbury for burial beside King Arthur. Launcelot is overcome with grief and remorse, blaming his own pride and default for the deaths of Arthur and Guenever.
Chapter 383
How Sir Launcelot Began to Sicken, and After Died, Whose Body Was Borne to Joyous Gard for to Be Buried
Sir Launcelot, grief-stricken by the deaths of King Arthur and Queen Guenever, refuses food and drink, wasting away until he dies. He receives last rites, requests his body be taken to Joyous Gard, and dies peacefully. The Bishop has a vision of angels carrying Launcelot to heaven. His body is brought to Joyous Gard, where Sir Ector de Maris arrives after seven years of searching.
Chapter 384
How Sir Ector found Sir Launcelot his brother dead, and how Constantine reigned next after Arthur; and of the end of this book.
Sir Ector discovers the body of his brother Sir Launcelot at Joyous Gard and delivers a poignant eulogy. Launcelot is buried with great devotion. Sir Constantine is chosen king of England and restores the Bishop of Canterbury. Several knights, including Sir Bors, Sir Ector, Sir Blamore, and Sir Bleoberis, depart for the Holy Land, where they die fighting the miscreants. The book concludes with Malory's prayer and a note on the completion of Le Morte Darthur.
Chapter 385
XIV
The Pope sends bulls to King Arthur to make peace, and Sir Launcelot agrees to return Queen Guenever to the king. Despite Sir Gawaine's opposition, Launcelot brings the queen to Carlisle with great ceremony, leading her before Arthur and Gawaine, where many weep.
Chapter 386
Of the deliverance of the queen to the king by Sir Launcelot, and what language Sir Gawaine had to Sir Launcelot.
Sir Launcelot returns Queen Guenever to King Arthur, asserting her innocence and challenging any knight who claims otherwise. He recounts his past services to Arthur and Gawaine, including rescuing Gawaine from Sir Carados and Gaheris from Sir Turquin, and laments the lies that caused the rift between them.
Chapter 387
XVI
Sir Gawaine confronts Sir Launcelot, refusing reconciliation for the deaths of his brothers Sir Gareth and Sir Gaheris. Launcelot offers to build religious houses in their memory, but Gawaine insists on eternal enmity, though the Pope's command forces a temporary truce.
Chapter 388
XVII
Sir Launcelot, banished from the court, departs from King Arthur and Queen Guenever, taking his leave amid great sorrow from the knights and ladies. He vows to defend the queen's honor and prepares to leave the realm, with many knights pledging to follow him into exile.
Chapter 389
How Sir Launcelot Passed Over the Sea
Sir Launcelot, anticipating trouble from Sir Mordred, departs with a hundred knights from Cardiff to Benwick. He establishes his rule over France, crowns his kinsmen as kings and dukes, and rewards his loyal knights with lands and titles.
Chapter 390
How King Arthur and Sir Gawaine made a great host ready to go over sea to make war on Sir Launcelot
King Arthur and Sir Gawaine assemble a massive army of sixty thousand men and sail from Cardiff to invade Sir Launcelot's lands. Arthur appoints Sir Mordred as chief ruler of England and places Queen Guenever under his governance. Upon landing, they burn and waste Launcelot's territories. Sir Launcelot's knights urge him to fight back, but he hesitates to shed Christian blood and instead sends a damosel to King Arthur with a peace offer. King Arthur is moved to tears and inclined to accept, but Sir Gawaine insists they continue the war, and Arthur defers to his nephew's counsel.
Chapter 391
The Siege of Benwick: Sir Gawaine's Challenge
Sir Gawaine sends a damosel to Sir Launcelot with a message that peace is too late and he will never cease until one of them is slain. King Arthur lays siege to Benwick, and Sir Gawaine daily challenges the knights, smiting down Sir Bors and Sir Lionel. After enduring half a year, Sir Launcelot, moved by Gawaine's accusations of treason and the urging of his kin, finally arms himself to defend his honor against the king who knighted him.
Chapter 392
Book XIV
The chapter recounts the adventures of Sir Launcelot as he embarks on a quest, encountering various knights and ladies, and demonstrating his prowess and chivalry.
Chapter 393
How Sir Mordred presumed and took on him to be King of England, and would have married the queen, his father’s wife.
Sir Mordred, having spread false news of King Arthur's death, seizes the throne and attempts to marry Queen Guenever. She feigns agreement but escapes to the Tower of London, which she fortifies against Mordred's siege. The Bishop of Canterbury curses Mordred and flees. Mordred gathers a large army, and many Englishmen side with him, disloyal to Arthur. Word arrives that Arthur is returning from France, and Mordred prepares to meet him at Dover.
Chapter 394
How after that King Arthur had tidings, he returned and came to Dover, where Sir Mordred met him to let his landing; and of the death of Sir Gawaine.
King Arthur returns to England with a great navy to confront Sir Mordred, who has usurped the throne and attempted to marry Queen Guenever. After a fierce battle at Dover, Arthur's forces land and put Mordred to flight. The mortally wounded Sir Gawaine is found, and he writes a letter to Sir Launcelot, taking responsibility for his own death and urging Launcelot to return and rescue King Arthur from the traitor Mordred. Gawaine dies at noon, and Arthur buries him in a chapel at Dover Castle.
Chapter 395
III
King Arthur dreams of Sir Gawaine, who warns him not to fight Sir Mordred the next day, as he would be slain; Arthur sends Sir Lucan and Sir Bedivere to negotiate a month-long truce with Mordred, who agrees to take Cornwall and Kent during Arthur's reign and all England after.
Chapter 396
How by misadventure of an adder the battle began, where Mordred was slain, and Arthur hurt to the death.
King Arthur and Sir Mordred meet for a parley, but an adder stings a knight, causing him to draw his sword and triggering a full-scale battle. Both armies fight fiercely, resulting in massive casualties. Arthur and Mordred mortally wound each other; Mordred dies, and Arthur is gravely injured. Only Sir Lucan and Sir Bedivere survive among Arthur's knights. After the battle, robbers plunder the dead, and the survivors attempt to move Arthur to safety.
Chapter 397
How King Arthur commanded to cast his sword Excalibur into the water, and how he was delivered to ladies in a barge
King Arthur, mortally wounded, commands Sir Bedivere to throw Excalibur into the lake. After twice hiding the sword, Bedivere finally obeys, and a hand rises from the water to catch it. Arthur is then carried to a barge of mourning queens and departs for the vale of Avilion, leaving Bedivere alone.
Chapter 398
How Sir Bedivere Found Him on the Morrow Dead in an Hermitage
Sir Bedivere discovers King Arthur's tomb in a chapel and learns from the hermit (formerly the Bishop of Canterbury) that ladies brought the body at midnight. Bedivere resolves to stay and live a life of fasting and prayer, and the hermit welcomes him, revealing he knows Bedivere as the brother of Sir Lucan the Butler. Bedivere recounts the tale, and the chapter concludes with the account of Arthur being led away in a ship by three queens and Nimue, the Lady of the Lake.
Chapter 399
Of the opinion of some men of the death of King Arthur; and how Queen Guenever made her a nun in Almesbury
The chapter recounts the differing beliefs about King Arthur's death, with some saying he was taken to another place and will return to win the holy cross, while others maintain he changed his life in this world. It describes the inscription on his tomb: 'Hic jacet Arthurus, Rex quondam, Rexque futurus.' Sir Bedivere remains with a hermit at Glastonbury, living in prayer and abstinence. Upon learning of Arthur's death and the loss of the knights, Queen Guenever secretly goes to Almesbury with five ladies, becomes a nun, and devotes herself to penance, fasting, and alms-deeds, eventually becoming abbess.
Chapter 400
How Sir Lancelot Heard of the Death of King Arthur and of Sir Gawaine
Sir Launcelot, upon hearing of King Arthur's death and Sir Mordred's usurpation, returns to England with a great host. He mourns Sir Gawaine at his tomb in Dover, distributes alms, and then sets out to seek Queen Guenever, who has fled westward.
Chapter 401
How Sir Launcelot Departed to Seek the Queen Guenever
Sir Launcelot, against the advice of Sir Bors, sets out alone to find Queen Guenever. After searching for seven or eight days, he discovers her at a nunnery in Almesbury. The queen, overwhelmed with grief and guilt, blames their love for the war and the death of King Arthur and many noble knights. She commands Launcelot to forsake her company, return to his realm, and take a wife, while she devotes herself to a religious life. Launcelot refuses to marry, pledging instead to join her in religious devotion and prayer.
Chapter 402
How Sir Launcelot came to the hermitage where the Archbishop of Canterbury was, and how he took the habit on him
After the final parting with Queen Guenever, Sir Launcelot rides in sorrow to a hermitage where the Bishop of Canterbury (formerly the Archbishop) is. He takes the religious habit, confesses, and becomes a brother. Over time, Sir Bors and six other knights join him in penance. After six years, Launcelot becomes a priest. A vision thrice commands him to go to Almesbury, where he will find Queen Guenever dead, and to bury her beside King Arthur.
Chapter 403
Book XV
Sir Launcelot, after a period of madness, returns to Camelot and resumes his place as the greatest knight of the Round Table. He undertakes a new quest, encountering various adventures and reaffirming his devotion to Queen Guenever and King Arthur.
Chapter 404
How Sir Mordred presumed and took on him to be King of England, and would have married the queen, his father’s wife.
Sir Mordred, having spread false news of King Arthur's death, seizes the throne and attempts to marry Queen Guenever. She feigns agreement but escapes to the Tower of London, which she fortifies against Mordred's siege. The Bishop of Canterbury curses Mordred and flees. Mordred gathers a large army, and many Englishmen side with him, disloyal to Arthur. Word arrives that Arthur is returning from France, and Mordred prepares to meet him at Dover.
Chapter 405
How after that King Arthur had tidings, he returned and came to Dover, where Sir Mordred met him to let his landing; and of the death of Sir Gawaine.
King Arthur returns to England with a great navy to confront Sir Mordred, who has usurped the throne and attempted to marry Queen Guenever. After a fierce battle at Dover, Arthur's forces land and put Mordred to flight. The mortally wounded Sir Gawaine is found, and he writes a letter to Sir Launcelot, taking responsibility for his own death and urging Launcelot to return and rescue King Arthur from the traitor Mordred. Gawaine dies at noon, and Arthur buries him in a chapel at Dover Castle.
Chapter 406
III
King Arthur dreams of Sir Gawaine, who warns him not to fight Sir Mordred the next day, as he would be slain; Arthur sends Sir Lucan and Sir Bedivere to negotiate a month-long truce with Mordred, who agrees to take Cornwall and Kent during Arthur's reign and all England after.
Chapter 407
How by misadventure of an adder the battle began, where Mordred was slain, and Arthur hurt to the death.
King Arthur and Sir Mordred meet for a parley, but an adder stings a knight, causing him to draw his sword and triggering a full-scale battle. Both armies fight fiercely, resulting in massive casualties. Arthur and Mordred mortally wound each other; Mordred dies, and Arthur is gravely injured. Only Sir Lucan and Sir Bedivere survive among Arthur's knights. After the battle, robbers plunder the dead, and the survivors attempt to move Arthur to safety.
Chapter 408
How King Arthur commanded to cast his sword Excalibur into the water, and how he was delivered to ladies in a barge
King Arthur, mortally wounded, commands Sir Bedivere to throw Excalibur into the lake. After twice hiding the sword, Bedivere finally obeys, and a hand rises from the water to catch it. Arthur is then carried to a barge of mourning queens and departs for the vale of Avilion, leaving Bedivere alone.
Chapter 409
How Sir Bedivere Found Him on the Morrow Dead in an Hermitage
Sir Bedivere discovers King Arthur's tomb in a chapel and learns from the hermit (formerly the Bishop of Canterbury) that ladies brought the body at midnight. Bedivere resolves to stay and live a life of fasting and prayer, and the hermit welcomes him, revealing he knows Bedivere as the brother of Sir Lucan the Butler. Bedivere recounts the tale, and the chapter concludes with the account of Arthur being led away in a ship by three queens and Nimue, the Lady of the Lake.
Chapter 410
Book XVI
Sir Galahad arrives at King Arthur's court and sits in the Siege Perilous, fulfilling a prophecy. He then departs on the quest for the Holy Grail, accompanied by Sir Percivale and Sir Bors, and they encounter various adventures and visions.
Chapter 411
How Sir Mordred presumed and took on him to be King of England, and would have married the queen, his father’s wife.
Sir Mordred, having spread false news of King Arthur's death, seizes the throne and attempts to marry Queen Guenever. She feigns agreement but escapes to the Tower of London, which she fortifies against Mordred's siege. The Bishop of Canterbury curses Mordred and flees. Mordred gathers a large army, and many Englishmen side with him, disloyal to Arthur. Word arrives that Arthur is returning from France, and Mordred prepares to meet him at Dover.
Chapter 412
How after that King Arthur had tidings, he returned and came to Dover, where Sir Mordred met him to let his landing; and of the death of Sir Gawaine.
King Arthur returns to England with a great navy to confront Sir Mordred, who has usurped the throne and attempted to marry Queen Guenever. After a fierce battle at Dover, Arthur's forces land and put Mordred to flight. The mortally wounded Sir Gawaine is found, and he writes a letter to Sir Launcelot, taking responsibility for his own death and urging Launcelot to return and rescue King Arthur from the traitor Mordred. Gawaine dies at noon, and Arthur buries him in a chapel at Dover Castle.
Chapter 413
III
King Arthur dreams of Sir Gawaine, who warns him not to fight Sir Mordred the next day, as he would be slain; Arthur sends Sir Lucan and Sir Bedivere to negotiate a month-long truce with Mordred, who agrees to take Cornwall and Kent during Arthur's reign and all England after.
Chapter 414
How by misadventure of an adder the battle began, where Mordred was slain, and Arthur hurt to the death.
King Arthur and Sir Mordred meet for a parley, but an adder stings a knight, causing him to draw his sword and triggering a full-scale battle. Both armies fight fiercely, resulting in massive casualties. Arthur and Mordred mortally wound each other; Mordred dies, and Arthur is gravely injured. Only Sir Lucan and Sir Bedivere survive among Arthur's knights. After the battle, robbers plunder the dead, and the survivors attempt to move Arthur to safety.
Chapter 415
How King Arthur commanded to cast his sword Excalibur into the water, and how he was delivered to ladies in a barge
King Arthur, mortally wounded, commands Sir Bedivere to throw Excalibur into the lake. After twice hiding the sword, Bedivere finally obeys, and a hand rises from the water to catch it. Arthur is then carried to a barge of mourning queens and departs for the vale of Avilion, leaving Bedivere alone.
Chapter 416
How Sir Bedivere Found Him on the Morrow Dead in an Hermitage
Sir Bedivere discovers King Arthur's tomb in a chapel and learns from the hermit (formerly the Bishop of Canterbury) that ladies brought the body at midnight. Bedivere resolves to stay and live a life of fasting and prayer, and the hermit welcomes him, revealing he knows Bedivere as the brother of Sir Lucan the Butler. Bedivere recounts the tale, and the chapter concludes with the account of Arthur being led away in a ship by three queens and Nimue, the Lady of the Lake.
Chapter 417
Of the opinion of some men of the death of King Arthur; and how Queen Guenever made her a nun in Almesbury
The chapter recounts the differing beliefs about King Arthur's death, with some saying he was taken to another place and will return to win the holy cross, while others maintain he changed his life in this world. It describes the inscription on his tomb: 'Hic jacet Arthurus, Rex quondam, Rexque futurus.' Sir Bedivere remains with a hermit at Glastonbury, living in prayer and abstinence. Upon learning of Arthur's death and the loss of the knights, Queen Guenever secretly goes to Almesbury with five ladies, becomes a nun, and devotes herself to penance, fasting, and alms-deeds, eventually becoming abbess.
Chapter 418
How Sir Lancelot Heard of the Death of King Arthur and of Sir Gawaine
Sir Launcelot, upon hearing of King Arthur's death and Sir Mordred's usurpation, returns to England with a great host. He mourns Sir Gawaine at his tomb in Dover, distributes alms, and then sets out to seek Queen Guenever, who has fled westward.
Chapter 419
How Sir Launcelot Departed to Seek the Queen Guenever
Sir Launcelot, against the advice of Sir Bors, sets out alone to find Queen Guenever. After searching for seven or eight days, he discovers her at a nunnery in Almesbury. The queen, overwhelmed with grief and guilt, blames their love for the war and the death of King Arthur and many noble knights. She commands Launcelot to forsake her company, return to his realm, and take a wife, while she devotes herself to a religious life. Launcelot refuses to marry, pledging instead to join her in religious devotion and prayer.
Chapter 420
How Sir Launcelot came to the hermitage where the Archbishop of Canterbury was, and how he took the habit on him
After the final parting with Queen Guenever, Sir Launcelot rides in sorrow to a hermitage where the Bishop of Canterbury (formerly the Archbishop) is. He takes the religious habit, confesses, and becomes a brother. Over time, Sir Bors and six other knights join him in penance. After six years, Launcelot becomes a priest. A vision thrice commands him to go to Almesbury, where he will find Queen Guenever dead, and to bury her beside King Arthur.
Chapter 421
XI
Sir Launcelot and his eight fellows travel from Glastonbury to Almesbury, where they find Queen Guenever has just died. Launcelot performs the funeral service himself, and they bring her body back to Glastonbury for burial beside King Arthur. Launcelot is overcome with grief and remorse, blaming his own pride and default for the deaths of Arthur and Guenever.
Chapter 422
How Sir Launcelot Began to Sicken, and After Died, Whose Body Was Borne to Joyous Gard for to Be Buried
Sir Launcelot, grief-stricken by the deaths of King Arthur and Queen Guenever, refuses food and drink, wasting away until he dies. He receives last rites, requests his body be taken to Joyous Gard, and dies peacefully. The Bishop has a vision of angels carrying Launcelot to heaven. His body is brought to Joyous Gard, where Sir Ector de Maris arrives after seven years of searching.
Chapter 423
How Sir Ector found Sir Launcelot his brother dead, and how Constantine reigned next after Arthur; and of the end of this book.
Sir Ector discovers the body of his brother Sir Launcelot at Joyous Gard and delivers a poignant eulogy. Launcelot is buried with great devotion. Sir Constantine is chosen king of England and restores the Bishop of Canterbury. Several knights, including Sir Bors, Sir Ector, Sir Blamore, and Sir Bleoberis, depart for the Holy Land, where they die fighting the miscreants. The book concludes with Malory's prayer and a note on the completion of Le Morte Darthur.
Chapter 424
XIV
The Pope sends bulls to King Arthur to make peace, and Sir Launcelot agrees to return Queen Guenever to the king. Despite Sir Gawaine's opposition, Launcelot brings the queen to Carlisle with great ceremony, leading her before Arthur and Gawaine, where many weep.
Chapter 425
Of the deliverance of the queen to the king by Sir Launcelot, and what language Sir Gawaine had to Sir Launcelot.
Sir Launcelot returns Queen Guenever to King Arthur, asserting her innocence and challenging any knight who claims otherwise. He recounts his past services to Arthur and Gawaine, including rescuing Gawaine from Sir Carados and Gaheris from Sir Turquin, and laments the lies that caused the rift between them.
Chapter 426
XVI
Sir Gawaine confronts Sir Launcelot, refusing reconciliation for the deaths of his brothers Sir Gareth and Sir Gaheris. Launcelot offers to build religious houses in their memory, but Gawaine insists on eternal enmity, though the Pope's command forces a temporary truce.
Chapter 427
XVII
Sir Launcelot, banished from the court, departs from King Arthur and Queen Guenever, taking his leave amid great sorrow from the knights and ladies. He vows to defend the queen's honor and prepares to leave the realm, with many knights pledging to follow him into exile.
Chapter 428
Book XVII
The knights of the Round Table embark on the quest for the Holy Grail, with Sir Galahad emerging as the chosen knight. He proves his worth through a series of miraculous adventures, including the Siege Perilous, the shield of Joseph of Aramathie, and the healing of King Evelake. Sir Percivale and Sir Bors also have significant spiritual encounters, while Sir Launcelot is humbled by his sins and unable to achieve the Grail.
Chapter 429
How Sir Mordred presumed and took on him to be King of England, and would have married the queen, his father’s wife.
Sir Mordred, having spread false news of King Arthur's death, seizes the throne and attempts to marry Queen Guenever. She feigns agreement but escapes to the Tower of London, which she fortifies against Mordred's siege. The Bishop of Canterbury curses Mordred and flees. Mordred gathers a large army, and many Englishmen side with him, disloyal to Arthur. Word arrives that Arthur is returning from France, and Mordred prepares to meet him at Dover.
Chapter 430
How after that King Arthur had tidings, he returned and came to Dover, where Sir Mordred met him to let his landing; and of the death of Sir Gawaine.
King Arthur returns to England with a great navy to confront Sir Mordred, who has usurped the throne and attempted to marry Queen Guenever. After a fierce battle at Dover, Arthur's forces land and put Mordred to flight. The mortally wounded Sir Gawaine is found, and he writes a letter to Sir Launcelot, taking responsibility for his own death and urging Launcelot to return and rescue King Arthur from the traitor Mordred. Gawaine dies at noon, and Arthur buries him in a chapel at Dover Castle.
Chapter 431
III
King Arthur dreams of Sir Gawaine, who warns him not to fight Sir Mordred the next day, as he would be slain; Arthur sends Sir Lucan and Sir Bedivere to negotiate a month-long truce with Mordred, who agrees to take Cornwall and Kent during Arthur's reign and all England after.
Chapter 432
How by misadventure of an adder the battle began, where Mordred was slain, and Arthur hurt to the death.
King Arthur and Sir Mordred meet for a parley, but an adder stings a knight, causing him to draw his sword and triggering a full-scale battle. Both armies fight fiercely, resulting in massive casualties. Arthur and Mordred mortally wound each other; Mordred dies, and Arthur is gravely injured. Only Sir Lucan and Sir Bedivere survive among Arthur's knights. After the battle, robbers plunder the dead, and the survivors attempt to move Arthur to safety.
Chapter 433
How King Arthur commanded to cast his sword Excalibur into the water, and how he was delivered to ladies in a barge
King Arthur, mortally wounded, commands Sir Bedivere to throw Excalibur into the lake. After twice hiding the sword, Bedivere finally obeys, and a hand rises from the water to catch it. Arthur is then carried to a barge of mourning queens and departs for the vale of Avilion, leaving Bedivere alone.
Chapter 434
How Sir Bedivere Found Him on the Morrow Dead in an Hermitage
Sir Bedivere discovers King Arthur's tomb in a chapel and learns from the hermit (formerly the Bishop of Canterbury) that ladies brought the body at midnight. Bedivere resolves to stay and live a life of fasting and prayer, and the hermit welcomes him, revealing he knows Bedivere as the brother of Sir Lucan the Butler. Bedivere recounts the tale, and the chapter concludes with the account of Arthur being led away in a ship by three queens and Nimue, the Lady of the Lake.
Chapter 435
Of the opinion of some men of the death of King Arthur; and how Queen Guenever made her a nun in Almesbury
The chapter recounts the differing beliefs about King Arthur's death, with some saying he was taken to another place and will return to win the holy cross, while others maintain he changed his life in this world. It describes the inscription on his tomb: 'Hic jacet Arthurus, Rex quondam, Rexque futurus.' Sir Bedivere remains with a hermit at Glastonbury, living in prayer and abstinence. Upon learning of Arthur's death and the loss of the knights, Queen Guenever secretly goes to Almesbury with five ladies, becomes a nun, and devotes herself to penance, fasting, and alms-deeds, eventually becoming abbess.
Chapter 436
How Sir Lancelot Heard of the Death of King Arthur and of Sir Gawaine
Sir Launcelot, upon hearing of King Arthur's death and Sir Mordred's usurpation, returns to England with a great host. He mourns Sir Gawaine at his tomb in Dover, distributes alms, and then sets out to seek Queen Guenever, who has fled westward.
Chapter 437
How Sir Launcelot Departed to Seek the Queen Guenever
Sir Launcelot, against the advice of Sir Bors, sets out alone to find Queen Guenever. After searching for seven or eight days, he discovers her at a nunnery in Almesbury. The queen, overwhelmed with grief and guilt, blames their love for the war and the death of King Arthur and many noble knights. She commands Launcelot to forsake her company, return to his realm, and take a wife, while she devotes herself to a religious life. Launcelot refuses to marry, pledging instead to join her in religious devotion and prayer.
Chapter 438
How Sir Launcelot came to the hermitage where the Archbishop of Canterbury was, and how he took the habit on him
After the final parting with Queen Guenever, Sir Launcelot rides in sorrow to a hermitage where the Bishop of Canterbury (formerly the Archbishop) is. He takes the religious habit, confesses, and becomes a brother. Over time, Sir Bors and six other knights join him in penance. After six years, Launcelot becomes a priest. A vision thrice commands him to go to Almesbury, where he will find Queen Guenever dead, and to bury her beside King Arthur.
Chapter 439
XI
Sir Launcelot and his eight fellows travel from Glastonbury to Almesbury, where they find Queen Guenever has just died. Launcelot performs the funeral service himself, and they bring her body back to Glastonbury for burial beside King Arthur. Launcelot is overcome with grief and remorse, blaming his own pride and default for the deaths of Arthur and Guenever.
Chapter 440
How Sir Launcelot Began to Sicken, and After Died, Whose Body Was Borne to Joyous Gard for to Be Buried
Sir Launcelot, grief-stricken by the deaths of King Arthur and Queen Guenever, refuses food and drink, wasting away until he dies. He receives last rites, requests his body be taken to Joyous Gard, and dies peacefully. The Bishop has a vision of angels carrying Launcelot to heaven. His body is brought to Joyous Gard, where Sir Ector de Maris arrives after seven years of searching.
Chapter 441
How Sir Ector found Sir Launcelot his brother dead, and how Constantine reigned next after Arthur; and of the end of this book.
Sir Ector discovers the body of his brother Sir Launcelot at Joyous Gard and delivers a poignant eulogy. Launcelot is buried with great devotion. Sir Constantine is chosen king of England and restores the Bishop of Canterbury. Several knights, including Sir Bors, Sir Ector, Sir Blamore, and Sir Bleoberis, depart for the Holy Land, where they die fighting the miscreants. The book concludes with Malory's prayer and a note on the completion of Le Morte Darthur.
Chapter 442
XIV
The Pope sends bulls to King Arthur to make peace, and Sir Launcelot agrees to return Queen Guenever to the king. Despite Sir Gawaine's opposition, Launcelot brings the queen to Carlisle with great ceremony, leading her before Arthur and Gawaine, where many weep.
Chapter 443
Of the deliverance of the queen to the king by Sir Launcelot, and what language Sir Gawaine had to Sir Launcelot.
Sir Launcelot returns Queen Guenever to King Arthur, asserting her innocence and challenging any knight who claims otherwise. He recounts his past services to Arthur and Gawaine, including rescuing Gawaine from Sir Carados and Gaheris from Sir Turquin, and laments the lies that caused the rift between them.
Chapter 444
XVI
Sir Gawaine confronts Sir Launcelot, refusing reconciliation for the deaths of his brothers Sir Gareth and Sir Gaheris. Launcelot offers to build religious houses in their memory, but Gawaine insists on eternal enmity, though the Pope's command forces a temporary truce.
Chapter 445
XVII
Sir Launcelot, banished from the court, departs from King Arthur and Queen Guenever, taking his leave amid great sorrow from the knights and ladies. He vows to defend the queen's honor and prepares to leave the realm, with many knights pledging to follow him into exile.
Chapter 446
How Sir Launcelot Passed Over the Sea
Sir Launcelot, anticipating trouble from Sir Mordred, departs with a hundred knights from Cardiff to Benwick. He establishes his rule over France, crowns his kinsmen as kings and dukes, and rewards his loyal knights with lands and titles.
Chapter 447
How King Arthur and Sir Gawaine made a great host ready to go over sea to make war on Sir Launcelot
King Arthur and Sir Gawaine assemble a massive army of sixty thousand men and sail from Cardiff to invade Sir Launcelot's lands. Arthur appoints Sir Mordred as chief ruler of England and places Queen Guenever under his governance. Upon landing, they burn and waste Launcelot's territories. Sir Launcelot's knights urge him to fight back, but he hesitates to shed Christian blood and instead sends a damosel to King Arthur with a peace offer. King Arthur is moved to tears and inclined to accept, but Sir Gawaine insists they continue the war, and Arthur defers to his nephew's counsel.
Chapter 448
The Siege of Benwick: Sir Gawaine's Challenge
Sir Gawaine sends a damosel to Sir Launcelot with a message that peace is too late and he will never cease until one of them is slain. King Arthur lays siege to Benwick, and Sir Gawaine daily challenges the knights, smiting down Sir Bors and Sir Lionel. After enduring half a year, Sir Launcelot, moved by Gawaine's accusations of treason and the urging of his kin, finally arms himself to defend his honor against the king who knighted him.
Chapter 449
How Sir Launcelot and Sir Gawaine did battle together, and how Sir Gawaine was overthrown and hurt
Sir Launcelot and Sir Gawaine engage in a fierce duel. Gawaine's strength magically increases until noon, but Launcelot endures his attacks. After noon, Gawaine's power wanes, and Launcelot overthrows him, refusing to kill a fallen knight. Launcelot then departs into the city, leaving Gawaine to be healed.
Chapter 450
XXII
King Arthur laments the war with Sir Launcelot, especially after Sir Gawaine is wounded. Sir Gawaine recovers and challenges Launcelot again, but Launcelot defeats him once more, though he refuses to strike a fallen man. News from England then forces Arthur to lift the siege.
Chapter 451
How Sir Launcelot behaved him at the jousts, and other men also
At a great tournament, King Arthur and his knights engage in fierce jousting. Sir Launcelot, accompanied by Sir Lavaine, enters the field and performs extraordinary feats, smiting down many knights of the Round Table. Sir Gareth, disguised with a green shield, joins Launcelot to aid him against King Arthur and nine knights, including Sir Gawaine and Sir Palomides. The three allies fight together, with Sir Gareth unhorsing over thirty knights, while the knights of Launcelot's blood hold the opposing kings at bay.
Chapter 452
Book XVIII
Sir Launcelot and Queen Guenever's love is exposed through the machinations of Sir Agravaine and Sir Mordred, leading to the Queen's arrest and Launcelot's escape. The chapter explores themes of betrayal, honor, and the tragic consequences of adultery.
Chapter 453
How Sir Mordred presumed and took on him to be King of England, and would have married the queen, his father’s wife.
Sir Mordred, having spread false news of King Arthur's death, seizes the throne and attempts to marry Queen Guenever. She feigns agreement but escapes to the Tower of London, which she fortifies against Mordred's siege. The Bishop of Canterbury curses Mordred and flees. Mordred gathers a large army, and many Englishmen side with him, disloyal to Arthur. Word arrives that Arthur is returning from France, and Mordred prepares to meet him at Dover.
Chapter 454
How after that King Arthur had tidings, he returned and came to Dover, where Sir Mordred met him to let his landing; and of the death of Sir Gawaine.
King Arthur returns to England with a great navy to confront Sir Mordred, who has usurped the throne and attempted to marry Queen Guenever. After a fierce battle at Dover, Arthur's forces land and put Mordred to flight. The mortally wounded Sir Gawaine is found, and he writes a letter to Sir Launcelot, taking responsibility for his own death and urging Launcelot to return and rescue King Arthur from the traitor Mordred. Gawaine dies at noon, and Arthur buries him in a chapel at Dover Castle.
Chapter 455
III
King Arthur dreams of Sir Gawaine, who warns him not to fight Sir Mordred the next day, as he would be slain; Arthur sends Sir Lucan and Sir Bedivere to negotiate a month-long truce with Mordred, who agrees to take Cornwall and Kent during Arthur's reign and all England after.
Chapter 456
How by misadventure of an adder the battle began, where Mordred was slain, and Arthur hurt to the death.
King Arthur and Sir Mordred meet for a parley, but an adder stings a knight, causing him to draw his sword and triggering a full-scale battle. Both armies fight fiercely, resulting in massive casualties. Arthur and Mordred mortally wound each other; Mordred dies, and Arthur is gravely injured. Only Sir Lucan and Sir Bedivere survive among Arthur's knights. After the battle, robbers plunder the dead, and the survivors attempt to move Arthur to safety.
Chapter 457
How King Arthur commanded to cast his sword Excalibur into the water, and how he was delivered to ladies in a barge
King Arthur, mortally wounded, commands Sir Bedivere to throw Excalibur into the lake. After twice hiding the sword, Bedivere finally obeys, and a hand rises from the water to catch it. Arthur is then carried to a barge of mourning queens and departs for the vale of Avilion, leaving Bedivere alone.
Chapter 458
How Sir Bedivere Found Him on the Morrow Dead in an Hermitage
Sir Bedivere discovers King Arthur's tomb in a chapel and learns from the hermit (formerly the Bishop of Canterbury) that ladies brought the body at midnight. Bedivere resolves to stay and live a life of fasting and prayer, and the hermit welcomes him, revealing he knows Bedivere as the brother of Sir Lucan the Butler. Bedivere recounts the tale, and the chapter concludes with the account of Arthur being led away in a ship by three queens and Nimue, the Lady of the Lake.
Chapter 459
Of the opinion of some men of the death of King Arthur; and how Queen Guenever made her a nun in Almesbury
The chapter recounts the differing beliefs about King Arthur's death, with some saying he was taken to another place and will return to win the holy cross, while others maintain he changed his life in this world. It describes the inscription on his tomb: 'Hic jacet Arthurus, Rex quondam, Rexque futurus.' Sir Bedivere remains with a hermit at Glastonbury, living in prayer and abstinence. Upon learning of Arthur's death and the loss of the knights, Queen Guenever secretly goes to Almesbury with five ladies, becomes a nun, and devotes herself to penance, fasting, and alms-deeds, eventually becoming abbess.
Chapter 460
How Sir Lancelot Heard of the Death of King Arthur and of Sir Gawaine
Sir Launcelot, upon hearing of King Arthur's death and Sir Mordred's usurpation, returns to England with a great host. He mourns Sir Gawaine at his tomb in Dover, distributes alms, and then sets out to seek Queen Guenever, who has fled westward.
Chapter 461
How Sir Launcelot Departed to Seek the Queen Guenever
Sir Launcelot, against the advice of Sir Bors, sets out alone to find Queen Guenever. After searching for seven or eight days, he discovers her at a nunnery in Almesbury. The queen, overwhelmed with grief and guilt, blames their love for the war and the death of King Arthur and many noble knights. She commands Launcelot to forsake her company, return to his realm, and take a wife, while she devotes herself to a religious life. Launcelot refuses to marry, pledging instead to join her in religious devotion and prayer.
Chapter 462
How Sir Launcelot came to the hermitage where the Archbishop of Canterbury was, and how he took the habit on him
After the final parting with Queen Guenever, Sir Launcelot rides in sorrow to a hermitage where the Bishop of Canterbury (formerly the Archbishop) is. He takes the religious habit, confesses, and becomes a brother. Over time, Sir Bors and six other knights join him in penance. After six years, Launcelot becomes a priest. A vision thrice commands him to go to Almesbury, where he will find Queen Guenever dead, and to bury her beside King Arthur.
Chapter 463
XI
Sir Launcelot and his eight fellows travel from Glastonbury to Almesbury, where they find Queen Guenever has just died. Launcelot performs the funeral service himself, and they bring her body back to Glastonbury for burial beside King Arthur. Launcelot is overcome with grief and remorse, blaming his own pride and default for the deaths of Arthur and Guenever.
Chapter 464
How Sir Launcelot Began to Sicken, and After Died, Whose Body Was Borne to Joyous Gard for to Be Buried
Sir Launcelot, grief-stricken by the deaths of King Arthur and Queen Guenever, refuses food and drink, wasting away until he dies. He receives last rites, requests his body be taken to Joyous Gard, and dies peacefully. The Bishop has a vision of angels carrying Launcelot to heaven. His body is brought to Joyous Gard, where Sir Ector de Maris arrives after seven years of searching.
Chapter 465
How Sir Ector found Sir Launcelot his brother dead, and how Constantine reigned next after Arthur; and of the end of this book.
Sir Ector discovers the body of his brother Sir Launcelot at Joyous Gard and delivers a poignant eulogy. Launcelot is buried with great devotion. Sir Constantine is chosen king of England and restores the Bishop of Canterbury. Several knights, including Sir Bors, Sir Ector, Sir Blamore, and Sir Bleoberis, depart for the Holy Land, where they die fighting the miscreants. The book concludes with Malory's prayer and a note on the completion of Le Morte Darthur.
Chapter 466
XIV
The Pope sends bulls to King Arthur to make peace, and Sir Launcelot agrees to return Queen Guenever to the king. Despite Sir Gawaine's opposition, Launcelot brings the queen to Carlisle with great ceremony, leading her before Arthur and Gawaine, where many weep.
Chapter 467
Of the deliverance of the queen to the king by Sir Launcelot, and what language Sir Gawaine had to Sir Launcelot.
Sir Launcelot returns Queen Guenever to King Arthur, asserting her innocence and challenging any knight who claims otherwise. He recounts his past services to Arthur and Gawaine, including rescuing Gawaine from Sir Carados and Gaheris from Sir Turquin, and laments the lies that caused the rift between them.
Chapter 468
XVI
Sir Gawaine confronts Sir Launcelot, refusing reconciliation for the deaths of his brothers Sir Gareth and Sir Gaheris. Launcelot offers to build religious houses in their memory, but Gawaine insists on eternal enmity, though the Pope's command forces a temporary truce.
Chapter 469
XVII
Sir Launcelot, banished from the court, departs from King Arthur and Queen Guenever, taking his leave amid great sorrow from the knights and ladies. He vows to defend the queen's honor and prepares to leave the realm, with many knights pledging to follow him into exile.
Chapter 470
How Sir Launcelot Passed Over the Sea
Sir Launcelot, anticipating trouble from Sir Mordred, departs with a hundred knights from Cardiff to Benwick. He establishes his rule over France, crowns his kinsmen as kings and dukes, and rewards his loyal knights with lands and titles.
Chapter 471
How King Arthur and Sir Gawaine made a great host ready to go over sea to make war on Sir Launcelot
King Arthur and Sir Gawaine assemble a massive army of sixty thousand men and sail from Cardiff to invade Sir Launcelot's lands. Arthur appoints Sir Mordred as chief ruler of England and places Queen Guenever under his governance. Upon landing, they burn and waste Launcelot's territories. Sir Launcelot's knights urge him to fight back, but he hesitates to shed Christian blood and instead sends a damosel to King Arthur with a peace offer. King Arthur is moved to tears and inclined to accept, but Sir Gawaine insists they continue the war, and Arthur defers to his nephew's counsel.
Chapter 472
The Siege of Benwick: Sir Gawaine's Challenge
Sir Gawaine sends a damosel to Sir Launcelot with a message that peace is too late and he will never cease until one of them is slain. King Arthur lays siege to Benwick, and Sir Gawaine daily challenges the knights, smiting down Sir Bors and Sir Lionel. After enduring half a year, Sir Launcelot, moved by Gawaine's accusations of treason and the urging of his kin, finally arms himself to defend his honor against the king who knighted him.
Chapter 473
How Sir Launcelot and Sir Gawaine did battle together, and how Sir Gawaine was overthrown and hurt
Sir Launcelot and Sir Gawaine engage in a fierce duel. Gawaine's strength magically increases until noon, but Launcelot endures his attacks. After noon, Gawaine's power wanes, and Launcelot overthrows him, refusing to kill a fallen knight. Launcelot then departs into the city, leaving Gawaine to be healed.
Chapter 474
XXII
King Arthur laments the war with Sir Launcelot, especially after Sir Gawaine is wounded. Sir Gawaine recovers and challenges Launcelot again, but Launcelot defeats him once more, though he refuses to strike a fallen man. News from England then forces Arthur to lift the siege.
Chapter 475
How Sir Launcelot behaved him at the jousts, and other men also
At a great tournament, King Arthur and his knights engage in fierce jousting. Sir Launcelot, accompanied by Sir Lavaine, enters the field and performs extraordinary feats, smiting down many knights of the Round Table. Sir Gareth, disguised with a green shield, joins Launcelot to aid him against King Arthur and nine knights, including Sir Gawaine and Sir Palomides. The three allies fight together, with Sir Gareth unhorsing over thirty knights, while the knights of Launcelot's blood hold the opposing kings at bay.
Chapter 476
How King Arthur marvelled much of the jousting in the field, and how he rode and found Sir Launcelot
King Arthur and his knights marvel at the prowess of a mysterious knight with a red sleeve of gold, whom Sir Gawaine identifies as Sir Launcelot, accompanied by Sir Lavaine and Sir Gareth. After the tournament, Arthur discovers Launcelot's identity and learns of his wound from a huntress. Arthur praises Gareth for aiding Launcelot, and the chapter concludes with feasts and celebrations.
Chapter 477
How True Love is Likened to Summer
The narrator reflects on the nature of true love, comparing it to the flourishing of May and contrasting the steadfast love of old with the fickle passions of the present day. Queen Guenever is cited as an example of a true lover who had a good end.
Chapter 478
Book XIX
Sir Launcelot and Queen Guenever are accused of treason by Sir Meliagrance, leading to a trial by combat. Launcelot defeats Meliagrance, but the queen's honor is restored only after Launcelot's victory.
Chapter 479
How Sir Mordred presumed and took on him to be King of England, and would have married the queen, his father’s wife.
Sir Mordred, having spread false news of King Arthur's death, seizes the throne and attempts to marry Queen Guenever. She feigns agreement but escapes to the Tower of London, which she fortifies against Mordred's siege. The Bishop of Canterbury curses Mordred and flees. Mordred gathers a large army, and many Englishmen side with him, disloyal to Arthur. Word arrives that Arthur is returning from France, and Mordred prepares to meet him at Dover.
Chapter 480
How after that King Arthur had tidings, he returned and came to Dover, where Sir Mordred met him to let his landing; and of the death of Sir Gawaine.
King Arthur returns to England with a great navy to confront Sir Mordred, who has usurped the throne and attempted to marry Queen Guenever. After a fierce battle at Dover, Arthur's forces land and put Mordred to flight. The mortally wounded Sir Gawaine is found, and he writes a letter to Sir Launcelot, taking responsibility for his own death and urging Launcelot to return and rescue King Arthur from the traitor Mordred. Gawaine dies at noon, and Arthur buries him in a chapel at Dover Castle.
Chapter 481
III
King Arthur dreams of Sir Gawaine, who warns him not to fight Sir Mordred the next day, as he would be slain; Arthur sends Sir Lucan and Sir Bedivere to negotiate a month-long truce with Mordred, who agrees to take Cornwall and Kent during Arthur's reign and all England after.
Chapter 482
How by misadventure of an adder the battle began, where Mordred was slain, and Arthur hurt to the death.
King Arthur and Sir Mordred meet for a parley, but an adder stings a knight, causing him to draw his sword and triggering a full-scale battle. Both armies fight fiercely, resulting in massive casualties. Arthur and Mordred mortally wound each other; Mordred dies, and Arthur is gravely injured. Only Sir Lucan and Sir Bedivere survive among Arthur's knights. After the battle, robbers plunder the dead, and the survivors attempt to move Arthur to safety.
Chapter 483
How King Arthur commanded to cast his sword Excalibur into the water, and how he was delivered to ladies in a barge
King Arthur, mortally wounded, commands Sir Bedivere to throw Excalibur into the lake. After twice hiding the sword, Bedivere finally obeys, and a hand rises from the water to catch it. Arthur is then carried to a barge of mourning queens and departs for the vale of Avilion, leaving Bedivere alone.
Chapter 484
How Sir Bedivere Found Him on the Morrow Dead in an Hermitage
Sir Bedivere discovers King Arthur's tomb in a chapel and learns from the hermit (formerly the Bishop of Canterbury) that ladies brought the body at midnight. Bedivere resolves to stay and live a life of fasting and prayer, and the hermit welcomes him, revealing he knows Bedivere as the brother of Sir Lucan the Butler. Bedivere recounts the tale, and the chapter concludes with the account of Arthur being led away in a ship by three queens and Nimue, the Lady of the Lake.
Chapter 485
Of the opinion of some men of the death of King Arthur; and how Queen Guenever made her a nun in Almesbury
The chapter recounts the differing beliefs about King Arthur's death, with some saying he was taken to another place and will return to win the holy cross, while others maintain he changed his life in this world. It describes the inscription on his tomb: 'Hic jacet Arthurus, Rex quondam, Rexque futurus.' Sir Bedivere remains with a hermit at Glastonbury, living in prayer and abstinence. Upon learning of Arthur's death and the loss of the knights, Queen Guenever secretly goes to Almesbury with five ladies, becomes a nun, and devotes herself to penance, fasting, and alms-deeds, eventually becoming abbess.
Chapter 486
How Sir Lancelot Heard of the Death of King Arthur and of Sir Gawaine
Sir Launcelot, upon hearing of King Arthur's death and Sir Mordred's usurpation, returns to England with a great host. He mourns Sir Gawaine at his tomb in Dover, distributes alms, and then sets out to seek Queen Guenever, who has fled westward.
Chapter 487
How Sir Launcelot Departed to Seek the Queen Guenever
Sir Launcelot, against the advice of Sir Bors, sets out alone to find Queen Guenever. After searching for seven or eight days, he discovers her at a nunnery in Almesbury. The queen, overwhelmed with grief and guilt, blames their love for the war and the death of King Arthur and many noble knights. She commands Launcelot to forsake her company, return to his realm, and take a wife, while she devotes herself to a religious life. Launcelot refuses to marry, pledging instead to join her in religious devotion and prayer.
Chapter 488
How Sir Launcelot came to the hermitage where the Archbishop of Canterbury was, and how he took the habit on him
After the final parting with Queen Guenever, Sir Launcelot rides in sorrow to a hermitage where the Bishop of Canterbury (formerly the Archbishop) is. He takes the religious habit, confesses, and becomes a brother. Over time, Sir Bors and six other knights join him in penance. After six years, Launcelot becomes a priest. A vision thrice commands him to go to Almesbury, where he will find Queen Guenever dead, and to bury her beside King Arthur.
Chapter 489
XI
Sir Launcelot and his eight fellows travel from Glastonbury to Almesbury, where they find Queen Guenever has just died. Launcelot performs the funeral service himself, and they bring her body back to Glastonbury for burial beside King Arthur. Launcelot is overcome with grief and remorse, blaming his own pride and default for the deaths of Arthur and Guenever.
Chapter 490
How Sir Launcelot Began to Sicken, and After Died, Whose Body Was Borne to Joyous Gard for to Be Buried
Sir Launcelot, grief-stricken by the deaths of King Arthur and Queen Guenever, refuses food and drink, wasting away until he dies. He receives last rites, requests his body be taken to Joyous Gard, and dies peacefully. The Bishop has a vision of angels carrying Launcelot to heaven. His body is brought to Joyous Gard, where Sir Ector de Maris arrives after seven years of searching.
Chapter 491
How Sir Ector found Sir Launcelot his brother dead, and how Constantine reigned next after Arthur; and of the end of this book.
Sir Ector discovers the body of his brother Sir Launcelot at Joyous Gard and delivers a poignant eulogy. Launcelot is buried with great devotion. Sir Constantine is chosen king of England and restores the Bishop of Canterbury. Several knights, including Sir Bors, Sir Ector, Sir Blamore, and Sir Bleoberis, depart for the Holy Land, where they die fighting the miscreants. The book concludes with Malory's prayer and a note on the completion of Le Morte Darthur.
Chapter 492
Book XX
Sir Launcelot and Queen Guenever are discovered in adultery by Sir Agravaine and Sir Mordred, leading to a public accusation and a trial by combat. Guenever is sentenced to be burned at the stake, but Launcelot rescues her, slaying many knights including Sir Gareth and Sir Gaheris, which causes a rift with Sir Gawaine. The chapter sets the stage for the final conflict between Arthur and Launcelot.
Chapter 493
How Sir Mordred presumed and took on him to be King of England, and would have married the queen, his father’s wife.
Sir Mordred, having spread false news of King Arthur's death, seizes the throne and attempts to marry Queen Guenever. She feigns agreement but escapes to the Tower of London, which she fortifies against Mordred's siege. The Bishop of Canterbury curses Mordred and flees. Mordred gathers a large army, and many Englishmen side with him, disloyal to Arthur. Word arrives that Arthur is returning from France, and Mordred prepares to meet him at Dover.
Chapter 494
How after that King Arthur had tidings, he returned and came to Dover, where Sir Mordred met him to let his landing; and of the death of Sir Gawaine.
King Arthur returns to England with a great navy to confront Sir Mordred, who has usurped the throne and attempted to marry Queen Guenever. After a fierce battle at Dover, Arthur's forces land and put Mordred to flight. The mortally wounded Sir Gawaine is found, and he writes a letter to Sir Launcelot, taking responsibility for his own death and urging Launcelot to return and rescue King Arthur from the traitor Mordred. Gawaine dies at noon, and Arthur buries him in a chapel at Dover Castle.
Chapter 495
III
King Arthur dreams of Sir Gawaine, who warns him not to fight Sir Mordred the next day, as he would be slain; Arthur sends Sir Lucan and Sir Bedivere to negotiate a month-long truce with Mordred, who agrees to take Cornwall and Kent during Arthur's reign and all England after.
Chapter 496
How by misadventure of an adder the battle began, where Mordred was slain, and Arthur hurt to the death.
King Arthur and Sir Mordred meet for a parley, but an adder stings a knight, causing him to draw his sword and triggering a full-scale battle. Both armies fight fiercely, resulting in massive casualties. Arthur and Mordred mortally wound each other; Mordred dies, and Arthur is gravely injured. Only Sir Lucan and Sir Bedivere survive among Arthur's knights. After the battle, robbers plunder the dead, and the survivors attempt to move Arthur to safety.
Chapter 497
How King Arthur commanded to cast his sword Excalibur into the water, and how he was delivered to ladies in a barge
King Arthur, mortally wounded, commands Sir Bedivere to throw Excalibur into the lake. After twice hiding the sword, Bedivere finally obeys, and a hand rises from the water to catch it. Arthur is then carried to a barge of mourning queens and departs for the vale of Avilion, leaving Bedivere alone.
Chapter 498
How Sir Bedivere Found Him on the Morrow Dead in an Hermitage
Sir Bedivere discovers King Arthur's tomb in a chapel and learns from the hermit (formerly the Bishop of Canterbury) that ladies brought the body at midnight. Bedivere resolves to stay and live a life of fasting and prayer, and the hermit welcomes him, revealing he knows Bedivere as the brother of Sir Lucan the Butler. Bedivere recounts the tale, and the chapter concludes with the account of Arthur being led away in a ship by three queens and Nimue, the Lady of the Lake.
Chapter 499
Of the opinion of some men of the death of King Arthur; and how Queen Guenever made her a nun in Almesbury
The chapter recounts the differing beliefs about King Arthur's death, with some saying he was taken to another place and will return to win the holy cross, while others maintain he changed his life in this world. It describes the inscription on his tomb: 'Hic jacet Arthurus, Rex quondam, Rexque futurus.' Sir Bedivere remains with a hermit at Glastonbury, living in prayer and abstinence. Upon learning of Arthur's death and the loss of the knights, Queen Guenever secretly goes to Almesbury with five ladies, becomes a nun, and devotes herself to penance, fasting, and alms-deeds, eventually becoming abbess.
Chapter 500
How Sir Lancelot Heard of the Death of King Arthur and of Sir Gawaine
Sir Launcelot, upon hearing of King Arthur's death and Sir Mordred's usurpation, returns to England with a great host. He mourns Sir Gawaine at his tomb in Dover, distributes alms, and then sets out to seek Queen Guenever, who has fled westward.
Chapter 501
How Sir Launcelot Departed to Seek the Queen Guenever
Sir Launcelot, against the advice of Sir Bors, sets out alone to find Queen Guenever. After searching for seven or eight days, he discovers her at a nunnery in Almesbury. The queen, overwhelmed with grief and guilt, blames their love for the war and the death of King Arthur and many noble knights. She commands Launcelot to forsake her company, return to his realm, and take a wife, while she devotes herself to a religious life. Launcelot refuses to marry, pledging instead to join her in religious devotion and prayer.
Chapter 502
How Sir Launcelot came to the hermitage where the Archbishop of Canterbury was, and how he took the habit on him
After the final parting with Queen Guenever, Sir Launcelot rides in sorrow to a hermitage where the Bishop of Canterbury (formerly the Archbishop) is. He takes the religious habit, confesses, and becomes a brother. Over time, Sir Bors and six other knights join him in penance. After six years, Launcelot becomes a priest. A vision thrice commands him to go to Almesbury, where he will find Queen Guenever dead, and to bury her beside King Arthur.
Chapter 503
XI
Sir Launcelot and his eight fellows travel from Glastonbury to Almesbury, where they find Queen Guenever has just died. Launcelot performs the funeral service himself, and they bring her body back to Glastonbury for burial beside King Arthur. Launcelot is overcome with grief and remorse, blaming his own pride and default for the deaths of Arthur and Guenever.
Chapter 504
How Sir Launcelot Began to Sicken, and After Died, Whose Body Was Borne to Joyous Gard for to Be Buried
Sir Launcelot, grief-stricken by the deaths of King Arthur and Queen Guenever, refuses food and drink, wasting away until he dies. He receives last rites, requests his body be taken to Joyous Gard, and dies peacefully. The Bishop has a vision of angels carrying Launcelot to heaven. His body is brought to Joyous Gard, where Sir Ector de Maris arrives after seven years of searching.
Chapter 505
How Sir Ector found Sir Launcelot his brother dead, and how Constantine reigned next after Arthur; and of the end of this book.
Sir Ector discovers the body of his brother Sir Launcelot at Joyous Gard and delivers a poignant eulogy. Launcelot is buried with great devotion. Sir Constantine is chosen king of England and restores the Bishop of Canterbury. Several knights, including Sir Bors, Sir Ector, Sir Blamore, and Sir Bleoberis, depart for the Holy Land, where they die fighting the miscreants. The book concludes with Malory's prayer and a note on the completion of Le Morte Darthur.
Chapter 506
XIV
The Pope sends bulls to King Arthur to make peace, and Sir Launcelot agrees to return Queen Guenever to the king. Despite Sir Gawaine's opposition, Launcelot brings the queen to Carlisle with great ceremony, leading her before Arthur and Gawaine, where many weep.
Chapter 507
Of the deliverance of the queen to the king by Sir Launcelot, and what language Sir Gawaine had to Sir Launcelot.
Sir Launcelot returns Queen Guenever to King Arthur, asserting her innocence and challenging any knight who claims otherwise. He recounts his past services to Arthur and Gawaine, including rescuing Gawaine from Sir Carados and Gaheris from Sir Turquin, and laments the lies that caused the rift between them.
Chapter 508
XVI
Sir Gawaine confronts Sir Launcelot, refusing reconciliation for the deaths of his brothers Sir Gareth and Sir Gaheris. Launcelot offers to build religious houses in their memory, but Gawaine insists on eternal enmity, though the Pope's command forces a temporary truce.
Chapter 509
XVII
Sir Launcelot, banished from the court, departs from King Arthur and Queen Guenever, taking his leave amid great sorrow from the knights and ladies. He vows to defend the queen's honor and prepares to leave the realm, with many knights pledging to follow him into exile.
Chapter 510
How Sir Launcelot Passed Over the Sea
Sir Launcelot, anticipating trouble from Sir Mordred, departs with a hundred knights from Cardiff to Benwick. He establishes his rule over France, crowns his kinsmen as kings and dukes, and rewards his loyal knights with lands and titles.
Chapter 511
How King Arthur and Sir Gawaine made a great host ready to go over sea to make war on Sir Launcelot
King Arthur and Sir Gawaine assemble a massive army of sixty thousand men and sail from Cardiff to invade Sir Launcelot's lands. Arthur appoints Sir Mordred as chief ruler of England and places Queen Guenever under his governance. Upon landing, they burn and waste Launcelot's territories. Sir Launcelot's knights urge him to fight back, but he hesitates to shed Christian blood and instead sends a damosel to King Arthur with a peace offer. King Arthur is moved to tears and inclined to accept, but Sir Gawaine insists they continue the war, and Arthur defers to his nephew's counsel.
Chapter 512
The Siege of Benwick: Sir Gawaine's Challenge
Sir Gawaine sends a damosel to Sir Launcelot with a message that peace is too late and he will never cease until one of them is slain. King Arthur lays siege to Benwick, and Sir Gawaine daily challenges the knights, smiting down Sir Bors and Sir Lionel. After enduring half a year, Sir Launcelot, moved by Gawaine's accusations of treason and the urging of his kin, finally arms himself to defend his honor against the king who knighted him.
Chapter 513
How Sir Launcelot and Sir Gawaine did battle together, and how Sir Gawaine was overthrown and hurt
Sir Launcelot and Sir Gawaine engage in a fierce duel. Gawaine's strength magically increases until noon, but Launcelot endures his attacks. After noon, Gawaine's power wanes, and Launcelot overthrows him, refusing to kill a fallen knight. Launcelot then departs into the city, leaving Gawaine to be healed.
Chapter 514
XXII
King Arthur laments the war with Sir Launcelot, especially after Sir Gawaine is wounded. Sir Gawaine recovers and challenges Launcelot again, but Launcelot defeats him once more, though he refuses to strike a fallen man. News from England then forces Arthur to lift the siege.
Chapter 515
Book XXI
The final book recounts the tragic downfall of King Arthur's kingdom. Sir Mordred usurps the throne, seizes Queen Guenever, and forces Arthur to return from abroad. The two armies meet at the Battle of Salisbury, where Arthur kills Mordred but is mortally wounded. Sir Bedivere casts Excalibur into the lake, and Arthur is taken to Avalon. The queen retires to a nunnery, and the Round Table is shattered.
Chapter 516
How Sir Mordred presumed and took on him to be King of England, and would have married the queen, his father’s wife.
Sir Mordred, having spread false news of King Arthur's death, seizes the throne and attempts to marry Queen Guenever. She feigns agreement but escapes to the Tower of London, which she fortifies against Mordred's siege. The Bishop of Canterbury curses Mordred and flees. Mordred gathers a large army, and many Englishmen side with him, disloyal to Arthur. Word arrives that Arthur is returning from France, and Mordred prepares to meet him at Dover.
Chapter 517
How after that King Arthur had tidings, he returned and came to Dover, where Sir Mordred met him to let his landing; and of the death of Sir Gawaine.
King Arthur returns to England with a great navy to confront Sir Mordred, who has usurped the throne and attempted to marry Queen Guenever. After a fierce battle at Dover, Arthur's forces land and put Mordred to flight. The mortally wounded Sir Gawaine is found, and he writes a letter to Sir Launcelot, taking responsibility for his own death and urging Launcelot to return and rescue King Arthur from the traitor Mordred. Gawaine dies at noon, and Arthur buries him in a chapel at Dover Castle.
Chapter 518
III
King Arthur dreams of Sir Gawaine, who warns him not to fight Sir Mordred the next day, as he would be slain; Arthur sends Sir Lucan and Sir Bedivere to negotiate a month-long truce with Mordred, who agrees to take Cornwall and Kent during Arthur's reign and all England after.
Chapter 519
How by misadventure of an adder the battle began, where Mordred was slain, and Arthur hurt to the death.
King Arthur and Sir Mordred meet for a parley, but an adder stings a knight, causing him to draw his sword and triggering a full-scale battle. Both armies fight fiercely, resulting in massive casualties. Arthur and Mordred mortally wound each other; Mordred dies, and Arthur is gravely injured. Only Sir Lucan and Sir Bedivere survive among Arthur's knights. After the battle, robbers plunder the dead, and the survivors attempt to move Arthur to safety.
Chapter 520
How King Arthur commanded to cast his sword Excalibur into the water, and how he was delivered to ladies in a barge
King Arthur, mortally wounded, commands Sir Bedivere to throw Excalibur into the lake. After twice hiding the sword, Bedivere finally obeys, and a hand rises from the water to catch it. Arthur is then carried to a barge of mourning queens and departs for the vale of Avilion, leaving Bedivere alone.
Chapter 521
How Sir Bedivere Found Him on the Morrow Dead in an Hermitage
Sir Bedivere discovers King Arthur's tomb in a chapel and learns from the hermit (formerly the Bishop of Canterbury) that ladies brought the body at midnight. Bedivere resolves to stay and live a life of fasting and prayer, and the hermit welcomes him, revealing he knows Bedivere as the brother of Sir Lucan the Butler. Bedivere recounts the tale, and the chapter concludes with the account of Arthur being led away in a ship by three queens and Nimue, the Lady of the Lake.
Chapter 522
Of the opinion of some men of the death of King Arthur; and how Queen Guenever made her a nun in Almesbury
The chapter recounts the differing beliefs about King Arthur's death, with some saying he was taken to another place and will return to win the holy cross, while others maintain he changed his life in this world. It describes the inscription on his tomb: 'Hic jacet Arthurus, Rex quondam, Rexque futurus.' Sir Bedivere remains with a hermit at Glastonbury, living in prayer and abstinence. Upon learning of Arthur's death and the loss of the knights, Queen Guenever secretly goes to Almesbury with five ladies, becomes a nun, and devotes herself to penance, fasting, and alms-deeds, eventually becoming abbess.
Chapter 523
How Sir Lancelot Heard of the Death of King Arthur and of Sir Gawaine
Sir Launcelot, upon hearing of King Arthur's death and Sir Mordred's usurpation, returns to England with a great host. He mourns Sir Gawaine at his tomb in Dover, distributes alms, and then sets out to seek Queen Guenever, who has fled westward.
Chapter 524
How Sir Launcelot Departed to Seek the Queen Guenever
Sir Launcelot, against the advice of Sir Bors, sets out alone to find Queen Guenever. After searching for seven or eight days, he discovers her at a nunnery in Almesbury. The queen, overwhelmed with grief and guilt, blames their love for the war and the death of King Arthur and many noble knights. She commands Launcelot to forsake her company, return to his realm, and take a wife, while she devotes herself to a religious life. Launcelot refuses to marry, pledging instead to join her in religious devotion and prayer.
Chapter 525
How Sir Launcelot came to the hermitage where the Archbishop of Canterbury was, and how he took the habit on him
After the final parting with Queen Guenever, Sir Launcelot rides in sorrow to a hermitage where the Bishop of Canterbury (formerly the Archbishop) is. He takes the religious habit, confesses, and becomes a brother. Over time, Sir Bors and six other knights join him in penance. After six years, Launcelot becomes a priest. A vision thrice commands him to go to Almesbury, where he will find Queen Guenever dead, and to bury her beside King Arthur.
Chapter 526
XI
Sir Launcelot and his eight fellows travel from Glastonbury to Almesbury, where they find Queen Guenever has just died. Launcelot performs the funeral service himself, and they bring her body back to Glastonbury for burial beside King Arthur. Launcelot is overcome with grief and remorse, blaming his own pride and default for the deaths of Arthur and Guenever.
Chapter 527
How Sir Launcelot Began to Sicken, and After Died, Whose Body Was Borne to Joyous Gard for to Be Buried
Sir Launcelot, grief-stricken by the deaths of King Arthur and Queen Guenever, refuses food and drink, wasting away until he dies. He receives last rites, requests his body be taken to Joyous Gard, and dies peacefully. The Bishop has a vision of angels carrying Launcelot to heaven. His body is brought to Joyous Gard, where Sir Ector de Maris arrives after seven years of searching.
Chapter 528
How Sir Ector found Sir Launcelot his brother dead, and how Constantine reigned next after Arthur; and of the end of this book.
Sir Ector discovers the body of his brother Sir Launcelot at Joyous Gard and delivers a poignant eulogy. Launcelot is buried with great devotion. Sir Constantine is chosen king of England and restores the Bishop of Canterbury. Several knights, including Sir Bors, Sir Ector, Sir Blamore, and Sir Bleoberis, depart for the Holy Land, where they die fighting the miscreants. The book concludes with Malory's prayer and a note on the completion of Le Morte Darthur.
Chapter 529
Endnotes
This chapter provides endnotes for the edition, converting glosses that appear only once in the work into endnotes, along with any non-gloss endnotes by Pollard.
Chapter 530
Glossary
A glossary of archaic terms and their modern definitions, providing translations for Middle English words used throughout the book.

Bibliographical Note

Preface of William Caxton

Le Morte d'Arthur

Book I

How Sir Mordred presumed and took on him to be King of England, and would have married the queen, his father’s wife.

How after that King Arthur had tidings, he returned and came to Dover, where Sir Mordred met him to let his landing; and of the death of Sir Gawaine.

III

How by misadventure of an adder the battle began, where Mordred was slain, and Arthur hurt to the death.

How King Arthur commanded to cast his sword Excalibur into the water, and how he was delivered to ladies in a barge

How Sir Bedivere Found Him on the Morrow Dead in an Hermitage

Of the opinion of some men of the death of King Arthur; and how Queen Guenever made her a nun in Almesbury

How Sir Lancelot Heard of the Death of King Arthur and of Sir Gawaine

How Sir Launcelot Departed to Seek the Queen Guenever

How Sir Launcelot came to the hermitage where the Archbishop of Canterbury was, and how he took the habit on him

XI

How Sir Launcelot Began to Sicken, and After Died, Whose Body Was Borne to Joyous Gard for to Be Buried

How Sir Ector found Sir Launcelot his brother dead, and how Constantine reigned next after Arthur; and of the end of this book.

XIV

Of the deliverance of the queen to the king by Sir Launcelot, and what language Sir Gawaine had to Sir Launcelot.

XVI

XVII

How Sir Launcelot Passed Over the Sea

How King Arthur and Sir Gawaine made a great host ready to go over sea to make war on Sir Launcelot

The Siege of Benwick: Sir Gawaine's Challenge

How Sir Launcelot and Sir Gawaine did battle together, and how Sir Gawaine was overthrown and hurt

XXII

How Sir Launcelot behaved him at the jousts, and other men also

How King Arthur marvelled much of the jousting in the field, and how he rode and found Sir Launcelot

How True Love is Likened to Summer

How King Arthur, the Queen, and Launcelot received letters out of Cornwall, and of the answer again.

How Sir Launcelot was wroth with the letter that he received from King Mark, and of Dinadan which made a lay of King Mark.

Book II

How Sir Mordred presumed and took on him to be King of England, and would have married the queen, his father’s wife.

How after that King Arthur had tidings, he returned and came to Dover, where Sir Mordred met him to let his landing; and of the death of Sir Gawaine.

III

How by misadventure of an adder the battle began, where Mordred was slain, and Arthur hurt to the death.

How King Arthur commanded to cast his sword Excalibur into the water, and how he was delivered to ladies in a barge

How Sir Bedivere Found Him on the Morrow Dead in an Hermitage

Of the opinion of some men of the death of King Arthur; and how Queen Guenever made her a nun in Almesbury

How Sir Lancelot Heard of the Death of King Arthur and of Sir Gawaine

How Sir Launcelot Departed to Seek the Queen Guenever

How Sir Launcelot came to the hermitage where the Archbishop of Canterbury was, and how he took the habit on him

XI

How Sir Launcelot Began to Sicken, and After Died, Whose Body Was Borne to Joyous Gard for to Be Buried

How Sir Ector found Sir Launcelot his brother dead, and how Constantine reigned next after Arthur; and of the end of this book.

XIV

Of the deliverance of the queen to the king by Sir Launcelot, and what language Sir Gawaine had to Sir Launcelot.

XVI

XVII

How Sir Launcelot Passed Over the Sea

How King Arthur and Sir Gawaine made a great host ready to go over sea to make war on Sir Launcelot

Book III

How Sir Mordred presumed and took on him to be King of England, and would have married the queen, his father’s wife.

How after that King Arthur had tidings, he returned and came to Dover, where Sir Mordred met him to let his landing; and of the death of Sir Gawaine.

III

How by misadventure of an adder the battle began, where Mordred was slain, and Arthur hurt to the death.

How King Arthur commanded to cast his sword Excalibur into the water, and how he was delivered to ladies in a barge

How Sir Bedivere Found Him on the Morrow Dead in an Hermitage

Of the opinion of some men of the death of King Arthur; and how Queen Guenever made her a nun in Almesbury

How Sir Lancelot Heard of the Death of King Arthur and of Sir Gawaine

How Sir Launcelot Departed to Seek the Queen Guenever

How Sir Launcelot came to the hermitage where the Archbishop of Canterbury was, and how he took the habit on him

XI

How Sir Launcelot Began to Sicken, and After Died, Whose Body Was Borne to Joyous Gard for to Be Buried

How Sir Ector found Sir Launcelot his brother dead, and how Constantine reigned next after Arthur; and of the end of this book.

XIV

Of the deliverance of the queen to the king by Sir Launcelot, and what language Sir Gawaine had to Sir Launcelot.

Book IV

How Sir Mordred presumed and took on him to be King of England, and would have married the queen, his father’s wife.

How after that King Arthur had tidings, he returned and came to Dover, where Sir Mordred met him to let his landing; and of the death of Sir Gawaine.

III

How by misadventure of an adder the battle began, where Mordred was slain, and Arthur hurt to the death.

How King Arthur commanded to cast his sword Excalibur into the water, and how he was delivered to ladies in a barge

How Sir Bedivere Found Him on the Morrow Dead in an Hermitage

Of the opinion of some men of the death of King Arthur; and how Queen Guenever made her a nun in Almesbury

How Sir Lancelot Heard of the Death of King Arthur and of Sir Gawaine

How Sir Launcelot Departed to Seek the Queen Guenever

How Sir Launcelot came to the hermitage where the Archbishop of Canterbury was, and how he took the habit on him

XI

How Sir Launcelot Began to Sicken, and After Died, Whose Body Was Borne to Joyous Gard for to Be Buried